What do you do at EKU?
I am an Adjunct Professor for Communication Studies.
What is your current position in nonprofit work?
I am the Director of Prevention Services at Geminus Corporation, a nonprofit agency that works in the social services.
What interested you in your current career?
Initially I was looking for a position that would allow me to grow my skills. Working in the non-profit sector was a great way to enhance my communication competency as the work we do at Geminus is all community based.
How did your education in communication studies prepare you for the work you do now?
My initial job at Geminus allowed me to combine two skills that I enjoyed learning about in my undergraduate and graduate work in the field of Communication Studies: small group communication and public speaking. I was hired to provide workshops and trainings and facilitate programs that supported tobacco prevention and cessation. Additionally, I coordinated a youth group to help youth find their voice and advocate against the negative impacts of the big tobacco companies.
Now as the Director of Prevention Services, I manage a team of 9 employees. I am responsible for a budget of over $1.2 million, as well as grant writing. There are four primary skills and concepts that I utilize regularly to be successful in my role and they include: public speaking, small group, interpersonal, and intercultural communication.
What advice would you give to someone interested in working in nonprofits?
There a many different nonprofit and social services agencies that are looking for smart and competent employees. I feel that the skills and knowledge you gain through Communication Studies positions you well to make a different in this world. Find one of these agencies that is making an impact in an area that you are passionate about. I always feel more passionate about the work that I am doing, it doesn’t feel so much like work. I love working in the nonprofit sector as I know that the work that I do daily, as well as that of my team and our agency as a whole is making a positive difference on the lives of those in our community.
By Susie Rickert, EKU Communication Studies student
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