Introducing 2013 DC ProInspire Fellow, Carolyn Kent

Name: Carolyn Kent Hometown: Durham, NC Current Organization: National 4-H Council What inspired you to apply for ProInspire? After returning from Peace Corps, I led a nonprofit organization that I founded in 2008 while also consulting on various project management jobs with Duke University. I found it incredibly difficult for me to get to the next level with my nonprofit in such an isolating setting. I was eager to partake in a program or work experience that included a professional development piece. I care deeply about making a social impact and felt that by working alone was not the most effective way to strengthen my skills and increase my impact. Is this the first time in the non-profit sector? This is not my first time in the non-profit sector but it is my first time working for a large non-profit and making a career in the non-profit industry instead of a side job. What is a typical day like for you on the job? Lots of meetings, drafting emails, project management, and some logistics/admin sprinkled in as well. How does this role compare to previous positions you’ve had within either the non-profit or other industries? This role is amazing! Honestly, 4-H runs more efficiently than my consulting job and it’s way more rewarding. I’ve always worked with small businesses and I’m impressed by this company’s ability to be business oriented but still have a social mission. What attributes do you have that you think made you marketable for the position? I think my international background definitely helped me as well as my entrepreneurial mindset. I can juggle multiple projects, handle details and still think long-term strategically. Flexibility and a sense of humor always help too! What is one thing you can’t live without professionally? A boss/manager that let’s me be creative and take lead sometimes! What do you think will be the biggest challenge for non-profit sector in the next 5 years? Resources – there are so many players in the game with similar missions. Nonprofits will need to figure out how to differentiate themselves and really prove that their Theory of Change is correct. Also think that putting metrics behind impact is a biggie. Where else would you like to live one-day? I would love to live in Colombia, Brazil or anywhere in Latin America!” If your friends had to describe you in three words what would they be? Silly, ambitious, and loyal