Austin, Texas, United States
I hitchhiked across the United States and Canada – twice. You won’t find this on my resume, but every ride was a story and a lesson that wove its way into the fabric of my career. Hitchhiking taught me how to listen, navigate, analyze, observe, research, budget, negotiate, manage and to see the road ahead while being willing to explore the roads less traveled. These are all traits that I have drawn upon to become an effective leader. The hats that I have worn during my career – lawyer, mediator, trainer, facilitator, nonprofit manager – all draw on the lessons from the road. Listening for and investigating the underbelly of the story provides preparedness on the road as well as in a courtroom. Seeing the road ahead during a heated battle in court earned me a reputation as a winner. Knowing which battles should be fought and which warrant negotiation is a life-saving skill on the road. This skill set my direction: I launched the first mediation practice and training center in Rapid City, South Dakota. My company was retained by the court system, several middle schools, Indian reservations, the postal service, the Board of Realtors, the Real Estate Commission, two universities, the Army Corp of Engineers and hundreds of individual disputants to resolve issues and provide training and facilitation. Strategic planning ensures the hitchhiker will arrive at her destination, using resources effectively and efficiently, and it provides a vision for the adventure. The same can be said of my years as a nonprofit manager. I turned around a nonprofit with strategic planning that included development of programs to garner funding and visibility in the community. Specialties: Board Development, Resource Development, Storytelling, Conflict Resolution, Training, Facilitation, Online Course Development.
As Executive Director, I lead the strategic direction and daily operations of a mission-driven conservation nonprofit committed to the long-term protection of wild places and waters. Working in close partnership with the Board of Directors, staff, volunteers, and community stakeholders, I oversee all facets of the organization including fundraising, financial management, communications, program development, and policy advocacy. Key achievements and responsibilities include: • Spearheading the development and execution of strategic plans that align with organizational goals and maximize conservation impact • Cultivating partnerships with local, state, and national agencies, community groups, and donors to advance our mission • Leading fundraising strategies including major gifts, grants, campaigns, and donor engagement, ensuring long-term financial sustainability • Managing organizational finances and budgets in collaboration with the Treasurer, with a focus on transparency and long-term sustainability • Supervising and mentoring staff while fostering a collaborative, mission-focused culture • Representing the organization publicly through media, events, and advocacy efforts, and maintaining a consistent and compelling brand voice • Overseeing program development and evaluation to ensure measurable impact and alignment with strategic priorities • Supporting board governance, including recruitment, training, and ongoing engagement of board members This role has allowed me to combine strategic leadership with hands-on execution in service of environmental protection, advocacy, education, and stewardship.
We provide collaborative consulting services for non-profit organizations. Whether you are facing challenges, making changes or need help boosting performance, efficiency or growth, we partner with you to ensure your success.
Austin Nonprofit Meetup is a community that is rich with wisdom, resources and experience that enhances the impact of nonprofits. The purpose of the Austin Nonprofit Meetup Facebook group is to provide our community with an engaging space to collaborate, learn and support one another. We connect nonprofit leaders to the support and resources that will enable their growth and ensure their sanity in the complex world of nonprofit leadership. Learn more about my online courses & nonprofit consulting services on my website: https://poweryourmission.com or send me an email at [email protected]
Leadership of Operations including Fund Development program, Communications, Personnel Management, Financial Management and Marketing and Audience Development.
Accepted into Greenlights Interim Executive Director Program in August, 2014.