Her Story
About Emily
I'm originally from Indiana and now live in New York City. I went to the Indiana University Lilly Family School of Philanthropy where I got my bachelor's and my master's in philanthropic studies. That was really the first time I was introduced to fundraising as a practice, and it just seemed to really align with my values, the power of storytelling, and just essentially wanting to make the world a better place. After I graduated, I worked for a nonprofit in Indianapolis before making the big move to New York for a different opportunity. I'd never even been to New York before I moved here, so it was quite the whirlwind, and I'm still a little bit in culture shock sometimes, but this is home now. I went through a couple organizations, but just started last month as the donor relations manager for Family Equality, an organization that does advocacy and community building, resource sharing, all around the country for LGBTQ families. I think this is really gonna be a passion project for me, so I am just super stoked to be a part of this organization. We actually had our New York City Gala last Monday, so I really hit the ground running, but it's been great.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Emily
01What do you attribute your success to?
I think a big part of my drive, especially in the industry I've chosen to spend my career in, is really just trying to make the world a better place, as cliche as that sounds. Ever since I can really remember, I've just always been like, I want to help people. I want to make this world a little less dark. And that's really what motivates me, professionally, for sure. On a more personal level, I have an incredible support network through my family and friends and mentors that I've had over the years that just really continue to build me up and bolster my confidence in who I am and what I have to offer, professionally and personally. I try really hard to approach every day with a fresh perspective, fresh eyes, and just like, okay, what can I accomplish today, or what do I want to do for myself? What can I do for someone else?
02What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
I would just say to own, and recognize, and acknowledge that imposter syndrome is a real thing. However, it does not have to hold you back. I mean, it's still something I struggle with all the time, especially coming into new environments and new teams. It's just kind of like, well, what value do I bring? But I think just being able to say, okay, this is something that I am feeling, but I am just going to do my best to set that aside right now, and know that whatever role I've been chosen for, whatever team I'm a part of, I'm here for a reason, and clearly, they saw value in me. And I just need to find that value in myself as well. And it's not an easy journey, although it takes time. But really just not devaluing yourself and helping others see the value that you bring has been huge for me in my career. And surrounding yourself with people that have that same mentality is super important.
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