Anna Powell
Nonprofit Management Certificate
What was your reaction to being nominated and ultimately getting the news that you had won the Plater Medallion?
I was honored to be a Plater Medallion recipient because of the prestige of the award and the nomination from a faculty member.
Can you tell us a little about the work you’ve done that led to this award?
I am a regular volunteer with Indianapolis nonprofit organizations, Second Helpings as a volunteer chef instructor and Dress for Success, a personal shopper and mentor to empower women in need of professional attire and tools for career development. I hold a board position in an international grass roots organization, Slow Food where I serve as the chair of a program that promotes local and sustainable food. During this work I have had the pleasure of advocating for change at the state level regarding our current food systems.
As part of my passion to serve others and provide a voice to all, I spearheaded a movement for the Dakota Access Pipeline protest this past Fall, myself and some close acquaintances drove out to the Standing Rock protest site to provide meals to protesters. I have also remained vocal and energetic toward women’s rights, having participated in the Women’s March on Washington and starting the Feminist React Facebook group to “to provide tangible action steps to create change. This group is a safe zone for all races, genders, sexual identities and religions.” I am working towards being a true agent of social change.
Who or what inspired your service-oriented mindset?
The philanthropy and help I have received is what has inspired me to in turn to dedicate my life impacting others.
What has been your favorite part about studying at SPEA?
I enjoyed Dr. Julia Carboni’s nonprofit management class. Dr. Carboni was the first person who asked me if I had plans to enter graduate school and encouraged me to go. She advised me that I was ready and that I should not allow my academic career to end after completion of my undergraduate degree. Also, the classes at SPEA were applicable in the workplace. The course knowledge obtained has helped me in my current role at the Ivy Tech Foundation.
What’s next for you after graduation?
And … I followed Dr. Carboni’s advice! I have applied to the McKinney School of Law for the fall of 2017 and have hopes of entering the newly approved joint degree program in Philanthropic Studies and JD. Degree at McKinney. I am interested in civil and human rights, the environment, and international law.