My non-linear path didn't need to look like anyone else's to be powerful. I wasn't starting over. I was building, one step at a time, trusting my own pace.
Susan Wandishin · In Her Own Words
Her Story
About Susan
Susan Wandishin is a dedicated nonprofit leader and Senior Director of Operations at the Dear Jack Foundation, where she plays a pivotal role in advancing programs that support adolescents and young adults (AYA) affected by cancer. With over a decade of experience in the nonprofit sector, she is known for her engaged and tactical leadership, overseeing program management, volunteer coordination, strategic partnerships, and large-scale event execution. Her work centers on building meaningful connections and fostering communication that ensures no young adult facing cancer feels alone.
Wandishin’s career began as a high school special education teacher, where she developed her passion for supporting individuals through significant life challenges. After transitioning from full-time parenting and community volunteer leadership roles, she entered the nonprofit sector as a volunteer coordinator, managing hundreds of events nationwide. She later joined the Dear Jack Foundation as a part-time office manager and steadily rose through the ranks, playing a central role in expanding community programming and volunteer engagement initiatives.
In her current role, Wandishin leads innovative efforts such as the organization’s large-scale letter-writing campaign, which delivers thousands of personalized messages of encouragement to cancer patients each quarter. She also collaborates on strategic partnerships and spearheads the events surrounding the foundation’s flagship benefit concert. Deeply committed to advocacy, she works to elevate awareness of the AYA cancer community, a vastly underserved population, while striving to create impactful resources, strengthen support systems, and inspire hope through every aspect of her work.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Susan
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to the incredible community of women who have mentored, motivated, and walked alongside me throughout my career. From my sisters, who have always been my support system, to the collaborative teachers I worked with in education, I have been shaped by women who lead with empathy and resilience. At the Dear Jack Foundation, I have been surrounded by female colleagues who teach me daily about the power of mission-driven work. While the steady guidance of my director and the strategic partnership of my husband have been vital, my growth is truly a reflection of the collective wisdom and encouragement of the women in my life.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best advice I’ve received is to trust the people who believe in your potential and to remain open to learning at every stage of your career. My current director has been an exceptional mentor, helping me build the confidence to transition into executive leadership by reminding me that my voice and perspective belong at the table. I have also learned that you don't have to have all the answers to start moving forward—you just have to start. One of my favorite guiding principles is to "Dream big, but get the details right." It is that balance of vision and precision that allows us to create real, sustainable impact.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering the nonprofit space is to surround yourself with women who are strong, intelligent, and creative - immerse yourself in people who will support you and challenge you all at the same time. Stay anchored in your "why" and lead with authenticity. In the nonprofit sector, your purpose is your greatest asset. Don’t feel pressured to have every answer immediately; instead, prioritize building meaningful connections and seeking out mentors who can support your growth. If you lead with an open heart and stay true to the mission, you will naturally create a lasting impact.
04What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values most important to me, center on compassion, authenticity, and meaningful connection. In my work, I am deeply moved by the trust families place in us during their most difficult times; being invited into their lives to offer support is a privilege I value above all else. I view my role as providing the operational strength that ensures these vital resources remain a constant for them. Personally, I find balance by spending time with my husband and our rescue dog, traveling, reading, and getting together with friends and I am even learning to play mahjong. I also love exploring Denver and finding new restaurants and fun spots around the city. These are the things that keep me grounded so I can show up and do this work effectively.
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