The nonprofit sector plays a vital role in building healthy communities by providing critical service that may not be economically viable but that contribute to economic stability and mobility. In an era of growing needs and shrinking resources, nonprofits are being asked to do even more with less. Engaged and knowledgable corporate funders, like Gateway Engineers and its Gateway Fund, are an important part of that equation.

I am the co-founder and partner at Nonprofit SideKick. With over 30 years of experience, I am a nonprofit leader, trusted advisor and consultant, leading organizations through transitions and building strong foundations for growth. I possess a wide range of experience across the nonprofit sector including leadership roles in corporate philanthropy and arts administration, as well as, health, human services and economic and workforce development. Prior to founding Nonprofit SideKick, I was a member of the start up teams at GuideStar (now Candid), The CarMax Corporate Foundation, and the Early Childhood Initiative of Allegheny County PA. I love working with new nonprofit leaders to show them that they can master the unique balancing act of nonprofit management and leverage that to lead high-impact organizations.

The work that Gateway Fund supports aligns with my values and my background as an educator and my commitment to fostering positive change in our communities. Throughout my career in education, and now as an Employee Development Specialist, I have seen how critical support and resources can transform lives and provide more opportunity for growth and development. Supporting Gateway Fund’s initiatives allows me to extend my commitment to education and community support beyond the classroom.  It provides a way to contribute to a cause that not only addresses immediate needs but also fosters long-term positive change.

My personal life and work experience uniquely position me to be an integral part of the Gateway Fund team. As a former educator, I spent several years dedicated to understanding and addressing the diverse needs of students, fostering their growth, and creating inclusive learning environments. This background has honed my skills in empathy, communication, and strategic problem-solving—qualities that are essential for effectively contributing to Gateway Fund’s mission. In the classroom, I learned the importance of patience, adaptability, and the ability to see challenges from multiple perspectives. These skills are directly applicable to the work of Gateway Fund, where addressing complex social issues and supporting community initiatives requires a compassionate approach. My experience has also instilled in me a deep appreciation for the impact that targeted support and resources can have on individuals and communities.

I enjoy spending my time outside of work with my family and friends.  I love traveling and spending time in my two favorite places, Puerto Vallarta, MX and Smithville, TN!  I also enjoy trying new restaurants, going to concerts, and golfing!

As the leader of Gateway Engineers, Inc., I realize that our corporate health and success is directly related to the many communities, companies, and institutions to which we provide integrated engineering services here in southwestern Pennsylvania. Without the continued support of this region, Gateway Engineers would not be the thriving organization it is today.

At Gateway, people are our most valuable asset. Giving back to the communities and the people who call this area home continues to be a goal of Gateway Engineers’ Board of Directors and Shareholders. Gateway Fund advances that goal to reality. On behalf of the entire Gateway Engineers organization, I am proud to be a part of something that will make a difference in our communities and in the lives of their residents.

I grew up in this region and went to school at West Virginia University. It is home in every regard. I recharge myself by going into nature here. You can find me on my bike on any of the trail systems, running along a stream, or skiing down the oldest mountains in North America (did you know that about the Allegheny Range?), and I love sharing these experiences with my family and my friends.

At Nonprofit SideKick, we partner with organizations, like Gateway Engineers that are deeply committed to demonstrating their values internally and within the communities they serve. Gateway Fund provides employees with a sense of purpose that extends beyond the projects they complete, knowing that they are supporting an ecosystem.

As a certified CliftonStrengths coach, I work with clients to create balance between work and their community. I enjoy guiding and supporting individuals and organizations to develop a holistic approach to lead a fulfilling life purpose. Gateway demonstrates their values in their leadership, work and their investment in their talent and communities.

The work that Gateway Fund will support is important to me because it aligns closely with my personal values and passions. By contributing to this cause, I feel I’m part of a larger effort to make a meaningful impact and drive positive change in areas that truly matter to me. Supporting this work isn’t just about financial assistance; it’s about investing in a vision for a better future to which I am strongly committed.

As an operations specialist, my personal life and work experience have equipped me with a unique set of skills and insights that make me particularly well-suited for the Gateway Fund team. In my role, I’ve developed an ability to streamline processes, manage resources efficiently, and implement systems that drive organizational effectiveness. My experience in optimizing workflows and ensuring operational excellence will be valuable in supporting Gateway Fund’s initiatives and maximizing its impact.

My background has given me extensive experience in data analysis, project management, and stakeholder coordination, which are crucial for managing and assessing the progress of funded projects. My attention to detail and problem-solving skills ensure that I can navigate complex challenges and find practical solutions that align with the fund’s mission.

Outside of work I enjoy spending quality time with family and friends as well taking my dog, Buddy, on adventures to new destinations