About Build to Bloom

A self-professed nonprofit geek, Kristen has held leadership positions with a diverse range of nonprofit organizations, from community-based agencies to higher education institutions and membership groups. As the service and programs manager for a fraternal benefit society, she was responsible for administration of programs and benefits for over 700,000 members and 1,300 nationwide volunteers. In just a few years, she transformed the culture of the team to one where everyone felt empowered to identify opportunities for improvement, develop solutions and make decisions.

Kristen designed multiple job training programs, including an on-the-job training program for formerly incarcerated individuals pursuing manufacturing careers and a health care bridge program for laid-off workers. Both initiatives involved partnering with other community organizations, educational institutions, and funders. She spearheaded the development of a K-12 blended learning (online and in-class) financial literacy program. She’s also served as project owner and lead SME for multiple software implementations. 

Kristen understands resource development and has a strong background in department budgeting. She was instrumental in the growth of one organization from seven full-time staff and a $750,000 budget to 16 full-time staff and a $2.5 million annual budget within the first year of employment. Kristen managed a $12-15M budget in her most recent role, even during a period of budget freezes and cuts. Through collaboration and ingenuity, the team was able to deliver the quality services and programming in those challenging times.

Kristen earned a bachelor's degree from Truman State University (Kirksville, MO), where she co-captained the women's softball team. She has a Master of Science in Public Services Management from DePaul University (Chicago).

In her personal time, Kristen enjoys volunteering. She co-founded a collective giving circle called the Circle of Healing, is a member of the West Side Giving Circle (Chicago), and volunteers as a committee member for the Quad Cities Community Foundation (Iowa). She LOVES traveling and the Chicago Cubs.