Student Feature: Erica Dodge

Erica Dodge is a current student in our Executive Program in Social Impact Strategy(SIS) and was accepted to the Nonprofit Leadership(NPL) Masters program. Learn more about her professional background and experience in the Executive program. Also, sign up for our Executive Program in Social Impact Strategy info session on August 10th.

Erica discusses her impact area, how she has applied SIS methods in the workplace, her educational goals when studying in the NPL program, and advice for future applicants.

“My work with Habitat for Humanity International (HFHI) Veterans Build team is easily the most rewarding job I have ever had. I am lucky to work with over 300 amazing affiliates across the country who have a desire to intentionally serve veterans and military-connected families through our 5 pillars: build, educate, engage, employ and honor.

Our team helps affiliates with projects, funding, partners, and overall support. Prior to working for HFHI, I volunteered on many occasions to help build homes with local Habitat affiliates. I did this through veteran service organizations working alongside veterans and others in the community who want to make a difference. Having a chance to have hands-on experience with the organization as a volunteer only furthered my desire to one day work for Habitat, and that dream came true four years ago!

My specific work with Veterans Build is highly important to me personally because my husband is a veteran, as well as my paternal grandfather and uncle. The work I do today honors the values and efforts they upheld throughout their military service and making a difference in the world. Service has always been my mission at home and abroad. From Returned Peace Corps Volunteer to my work in nonprofit leadership, I empower others to live their best life.

My favorite moment was from the very first online course with Dr. Frumkin, I knew I was in the right place! I was thrilled to further my skills and utilize tools that could help in the daily work I do at Habitat. Overall, being able to connect with so many wonderful professionals in all different parts of the world who are doing tremendous work, the CSIS program brings everyone together.

The advice I would give to future applicants is that no matter where you are in your career – a recent college graduate or like myself with a couple of decades of experience, now is the time to apply to CSIS! It is a flexible schedule and allows you to work around your needs, all while providing tools to further explore the world of social impact!”

Social Impact graduates can apply to the Nonprofit Leadership Master Program accelerated track as Erica will soon begin her Master’s journey!”I start the NPL Master’s program this fall and plan to graduate in May 2023. I look forward to furthering my skill sets in this program with the opportunity to continue my career in nonprofit leadership!”