Erica Oakley-Courage Mpa

Erica Oakley-Courage has an extensive work experience spanning various industries and roles. Erica currently works at El Pomar Foundation as the Associate Vice President of Grants since July 2021, having previously served as the Grants Manager from July 2018 to June 2021.

Prior to their role at El Pomar Foundation, Erica was the Development Director at Palmer Land Trust from April 2015 to June 2018, where they were responsible for creating and implementing a major gifts program, driving fundraising activities, and managing outreach and sponsorships.

Erica also worked at the American Heart Association | American Stroke Association, where they held the positions of Corporate Market Director from March 2013 to March 2015, and Administrative Associate from August 2011 to March 2013. In these roles, Erica was responsible for implementing business plans, managing fundraising events, cultivating sponsorships, and overseeing office functions.

Before their nonprofit roles, Erica worked as the Meetings Assistant and Volunteer Coordinator at the American Academy of Forensic Sciences from April 2011 to July 2011.

Erica also has experience in volunteer coordination, having served as the Volunteer Coordinator at Dream Power Animal Rescue from July 2010 to April 2011.

Additionally, Erica has sales experience from their time as a Sales Associate/Sales Lead at Ann Taylor LOFT from August 2008 to July 2010.

Erica has also worked in youth development as an In-School Scouting Program Leader for the Boy Scouts of America/Girl Scouts of Colorado from October 2008 to May 2009.

Earlier in their career, Erica worked as the Marketing Coordinator at ETA/Cuisenaire from August 2006 to October 2007, where they were responsible for product management and marketing activities.

Erica also has experience in media relations and public relations, having served as the Media Relations Manager for the Chicago Wolves from August 2001 to August 2006, and as the Office Manager/Public Relations/Director of Game-Day Operations for the Seattle Thunderbirds from August 2000 to August 2001.

Overall, Erica Oakley-Courage has a diverse work background with experience in grant management, fundraising, nonprofit management, volunteer coordination, sales, youth development, and marketing.

Erica Oakley-Courage, MPA holds a Master's degree in Public Administration from the University of Colorado Colorado Springs, which they pursued from 2019 to 2023. Prior to that, they completed their Bachelor's degree in Journalism - Public Relations at Western Washington University between 1996 and 2000.

In addition to their academic degrees, Erica has also obtained additional certifications. In December 2022, they earned a Certificate in Nonprofit Management from the University of Colorado Colorado Springs. Erica also holds a Master of Advocacy certification from the National Association of Community Health Centers (NACHC), which they obtained in September 2018.