I am currently the Assistant Director of the University of Northern Iowa's Center for Energy & Environmental Education where we are empowering Iowans with the knowledge, experiences, tools, and inspiration needed to create a sustainable and desirable future for our communities.I have been the Program Director for the Green Iowa AmeriCorps program for the past 12 years, leading the largest environmental AmeriCorps program in the state of Iowa. My roles requires significant grant writing, strategic planning, and statewide networking efforts to effectively manage our program with 25 host sites and 100+ members each year. In my role I have developed strong partnerships with state agencies, city governments, school districts, investor owned utilities, and community organizations to further statewide energy and environment initiatives. I was named Iowa's National Service Manager of Year in 2016 and have provided consulting services for organizations like Volunteer Iowa. I graduated from Valparaiso University in 2009 with Bachelor of Arts degree in Public Relations and a minor in Photography. I received my Master's degree in Philanthropy and Nonprofit Development from the University of Northern Iowa in 2015. I received my Certified Nonprofit Credential. I wanted to a pursue a career of service, utilizing my degree in a nonprofit sector. I participated in AmeriCorps service for both national and grassroots organizations where I had the opportunity to become specialized in volunteer management, grant writing and collective impact. I feel passionate about making a difference in the world around me and truly love the opportunity to provide that experience for others as the Program Director for Green Iowa AmeriCorps for the past 6 years. I also utilize my experience and skills as a former to Division I Softball Player at Valparaiso University as both a high school and a former Division III College Coach. I believe that athletics provides young people with so many tools to be productive, collaborative citizens, and thoroughly enjoy mentoring players as part of the coaching experience.