Member Spotlight: Jessica Gelin, CFRE
Jessica Gelin, CFRE
Director of Development
The Ohio State University, College of Medicine
Q: Tell us a little about your organization. Mission? Population you serve? What do you like most about working there?
A: The OSU College of Medicine is a top-notch public medical school, creating a future of medicine through innovation in education, research, and collaboration. We educate future physicians to care for our communities here in Ohio and throughout the country. We train medical scientists and researchers to discover cures for disease. In my role, I help to make medical education affordable by connecting our alumni to the College through philanthropy. It’s rewarding to help students realize their dreams of becoming doctors. The future looks bright in the hands of Buckeye trained physicians.
Q: How long have you been an AFP member, and what has your involvement been?
A: As a newbie to Columbus, I joined the Central Ohio AFP chapter. I got involved immediately, making a new network for myself. I am a current board member as Chair of AFP HQ Education, leading our Fundamentals of Fundraising and CFRE Courses. I’m an active member for the Monthly Education Course and Scholarship Committees. I’ve met some great new colleagues through NextGen, served as a mentor for the Collegiate Chapter and have learned a great deal as a mentee to a seasoned development pro in the area.
Q: What do you consider the most valuable part of your AFP membership?
A: The most valuable part(s!) of my AFP membership are 1) the incredible network of fundraising professionals, 2) continued education opportunities for professional growth and CFRE credentials, and 3) learning from mentors who teach, encourage, and empower members.
Q: How long have you been in fundraising, and how did you get into it?
A: I’ve been in fundraising eight years, starting as a communications and development intern in college. I quickly transitioned from PR to development, realizing a donation in the mail was an exciting fruit of my labor. I spent most of my development career as a Jill of all Trades with small nonprofit shops and am learning every day in my current major gift role in higher education.
Q: What is your favorite part about living/working in Columbus? Favorite Restaurant?
A: My favorite part about living and working in Columbus is the size of the city. Columbus can be anything you want, a happenin’ city or cozy neighborhood town. My favorite restaurant is Hudson29. (Jeni’s Ice Cream and Giant Eagle Market District Bakery are close seconds.)
Q: Tell us a fun fact about you that other AFP members wouldn’t know.
A: I’ve been yelled at by a Supreme Court Justice and survived to tell the tale.
Posted: March 2016