Shawn is a Data and Operations Analyst at Spark the Journey where he works across teams to recommend and implement process and system improvements. He works largely with the Development team, building out a robust fundraising system, and he reports on both past and future success metrics. He also works with the Programs and Marketing Communications teams to make processes more efficient so that we can continue to scale our programs as well as expand our brand awareness.
What made you want to work at Spark the Journey?
I was fortunate to have the opportunity to attend college and build a network. I have learned that it is so impactful to have a community of people rooting for your growth and success, whether that comes through a college experience or an alternative path. I wanted to work at Spark the Journey because I saw how the organization is not only helping our participants grow as individuals, but also giving them that community to foster sustained success. This mission, combined with the passion of everyone I had met at Spark, made me confident that the organization was making a big impact in the community.
Who’s a person in your life that ignited a spark in your journey?
One of my professors in college led a program where we learned about the importance of social impact in business and then we worked on a project with a local nonprofit organization. Outside of the standard business classes, it was exciting to learn about social and environmental innovation, and it was inspiring that the data and analytics skills I was learning could be applied to create change at a mission-driven organization. I appreciated his passion and care for leaving the world a better place, and this set me up on the path that has led me to Spark the Journey.
What college did you attend, and what was your favorite thing about it?
I attended the University of Maryland, and I really enjoyed the number of opportunities there were outside of class to build soft skills and relationships. While it is a large university, these additional opportunities made the campus feel smaller. And since it was such a big university, there was truly something for everyone. Going to the basketball games in the student section was also a ton of fun.
What do you enjoy doing in your free time?
I enjoy photography, discovering new places around the DMV, trying out new vegetarian recipes, and watching my largely unsuccessful New York sports teams.
If you could meet anyone, past or present, who would it be?
Lin-Manuel Miranda. Besides being a lyrical genius and a changemaker in the arts industry, it is admirable that while his stardom has risen, he has never lost sight of giving back to his community. I would love to hear his perspective on life; even just being a fly on the wall during a creative session of his would be sufficient.
What three traits define you?
Curious, detail-oriented, and open-minded. Hence my role in data and analytics!
What’s the most rewarding aspect about your role at Spark the Journey?
The most rewarding aspect is hearing the impact stories. My role is largely behind the scenes, making our processes more efficient for our Development team to fundraise and for our Programs team to interact with our participants. As a result, it is inspiring when the Programs team shares the amazing accomplishments of our participants, and it is fulfilling to hear when our work on the back end helps to make an impact.
What’s one thing you think more people should know about Spark the Journey?
The camaraderie at Spark is genuine; whether we are gathering on the office rooftop on a nice day for a work session, or getting into a fierce discussion before a meeting about the best bagels in the area (as a New Yorker, this one is tough for me), there is a sense of togetherness that extends throughout the organization.