Garrett Mayberry

Degree(s): International Affairs, Spanish & Portuguese

Professional background, interests and expertise: Before graduating from CU, I was an intern with the Beanstalk and Boettcher Foundations. Through those internships I heard about and applied for a two-year fellowship program in philanthropy at El Pomar Foundation in Colorado Springs, where I began working after graduation and had the chance to manage charitable funds, strategic grantmaking projects, international exchange programs and the foundation's annual report. Since, I’ve been at the Boettcher Foundation for the past two years, where I oversee the Boettcher Foundation’s portfolio of leadership grants, scholar enrichment grants and the Webb-Waring Biomedical Research Awards program. Outside of work, I enjoy exploring new running trails, international travel, playing soccer, and serving at my church. My interest in impact investing and social return on investment is channeled into my board service with Blue Star Recyclers and the Beanstalk Foundation.

Hours available for mentoring per month: 2-4

Best professional advice: I've worked the past 4 years (2.5 full-time) in the nonprofit/philanthropic sector. There's no undergraduate degree that prepares someone specifically for that, but I would say internships were by far the most valuable way for me to gain experience and connections in the sector. Young voices are often missing at the table in philanthropy, and many foundations actually want to create opportunities for young leaders interested in stewarding and investing community resources. Finally, the ability to research and write is a highly valued and transferable skill - don't underestimate that critical piece of your college education!