Education: 

Master of Public Administration, University of Oregon

Graduate Certificate in Nonprofit Management, University of Oregon

Bachelor of Arts, Honors College and Sociology, University of Oregon

Professional Summary:

Elena worked for over a decade in the nonprofit sector before pivoting to nonprofit banking and wealth management. While this shift seemed strange to her nonprofit colleagues, it followed a thread in Elena's career of serving nonprofits toward successfully meeting their goals - whether on the frontline, or through back office functions. Elena now works at Columbia Bank, a regional community bank in the Pacific Northwest, as a Wealth and Philanthropic Advisor. In that role, she serves as a point of contact and strategist for nonprofits, business owners, and individuals as they navigate life and business transitions, helping to identifying financial decisions they may come across along the way. She sits on the board of Neighborhood Partnerships, a statewide organizations focused on creating opportunities for Oregonians through asset building, housing and policy advocacy.

Courses and Teaching Style:

In Elena's classes, you can expect a hands-on approach to fundraising and leadership, incorporating local nonprofit leaders as guest speakers and getting project inspiration directly from organizations in our community. 

PPPM 481/581: Fundraising for Nonprofits

PPPM 410/510: Leading Nonprofits