Experience & Skills

Innovative and empathetic Grant Writing Specialist with a rich tapestry of experience spanning grant writing, business innovation, and customer engagement across various sectors. Equipped with a diverse educational background, including specialized certifications in grant writing and a broad skill set from business administration to creative copywriting, I am on a quest for opportunities that blend my passion for creating impactful change with my innate curiosity and strategic thinking.

As a dedicated advocate for authenticity and meaningful progress, underpinned by my INFJ personality and Enneagram 4w5 essence, I seek roles that not only challenge me intellectually but also resonate with my deep desire to contribute to projects with lasting social and environmental impact. My journey has been marked by a relentless pursuit of knowledge, a commitment to excellence, and a proven track record of securing significant funding for transformative projects. I am now looking to bring my unique blend of skills, creativity, and strategic insight to an organization that values innovation, empathetic leadership, and a forward-thinking approach to solving today’s challenges.

Grant Writing Certifications

Grants Training Program | UOP | Eberhart Business School

Level 1 Certificate – February 2023
Level 2 Certificate – March 2023


LearnGrantWriting.org aka The Global Grant Writers Collective

Certified Grant Writer – May 2021 – Current

This was a year-long program that included an online instructional curriculum, community, and
coaching to teach a step-by-step system for building a flexible career in grant writing with
ongoing support through The Global Grant Writers Collective. Current and in good standing.

Grant Writing Work Experience

San Joaquin Regional Transit District (RTD)

Temporary – Feb 2022 | Direct Hire – May 2022 – Current | 2 years

Diligent and results-driven Grants Specialist with a demonstrated history of working under
minimal supervision. Independently performs daily and challenging tasks, showcasing initiative,
creativity, and a commitment to excellence. Recognized for contributing to over $14 million
in grant funding, including over $5 million from competitive applications. These funds
were allocated to projects including vehicle procurement, fuel cell electric vehicle (FCEV)
hydrogen refueling infrastructure, operations, and apprenticeship programs. Proficient in
managing the full spectrum of grant-related activities, from initial research and application
development to financial calculations, budgeting, and successful submissions.


Key Achievements:

  • Independently performed highly responsible tasks such as grant prospecting, research, and delegation/facilitation.
  • Developed and submitted grant applications for single and multi-year programs, both competitive and formula-based.
  • Coordinated with stakeholders via Monday.com, Outlook, and MS Teams ensuring effective communication and project alignment.
  • Prepared and compiled all materials for each grant submission and ensured that the proposal was formatted, organized, and submitted in accordance with requirements and guidelines per the notice of funding opportunity (NOFO).
  • Provided guidance and leadership by evaluating and making suggestions for improvements to grant proposals and processes.
  • Prepared updated Grants Department standard operating procedures.
  • Facilitated the execution of agreements, actively tracked awards, and managed budget revisions within government grant award management systems (TrAMS and BlackCat).
  • Spearheaded the creation and maintenance of databases using modern tools like
  • Monday.com, enhancing departmental efficiency.
  • Led efforts in seeking and selecting a grant software solution, with a focus on customization and implementation.
  • Took part in decision-making meetings and represented RTD in various committees and webinars, including the Congestion Mitigation Air Quality (CMAQ) regional application review committee.
  • Ensured compliance with policies and procedures of the Grants Department, contributing to a successful Triennial Review.
  • Maintained a proactive approach to legislative changes, contributing valuable insights during audits and compliance document expiration monitoring.
  • Maintained a cordial and productive relationship with grant-makers, including the
  • Federal Transit Administration (FTA), Caltrans, and the City of Stockton.

Skills and Expertise:

  • Conducting Targeted Research to Help Identify Viable Grant Opportunities for each project.
  • Preparing Grant Program Summaries and Opportunity Announcements
  • Budgeting and Financial Match Calculations
  • Narrative Draft Writing and Proofreading
  • Assembling and Writing Persuasive Content and Narrative.
  • Project Coordination and Planning
  • Stakeholder Management via Monday.com and Outlook
  • Competitive Opportunities Analysis
  • Grant Software Customization and Implementation
  • Compliance Monitoring and Documentation
  • Template Creation and Standard Office Tasks
  • Customer Service Excellence and Effective Communication

Qualifications:

  • Certified Grant Writer
  • Proficient in Microsoft Windows and Modern Office Technology
  • Knowledge of public administration principles and practices
  • Strong organizational and interpersonal skills
  • Research methods and analysis techniques


Contributions:

  • Instrumental in securing over $14.8 million in grant funding, showcasing a track record of success.
  • Successfully navigated competitive grant applications, contributing over $5 million to the total funding acquired.

Other Education

Started a rigorous grant writing training program in May 2021 and continues education via
multiple online resources. Backed by a global collective of highly trained and tenured grant
writers and other nonprofit professionals.

  • Entire MBA in 1 Course
    Udemy: Chris Haroun 2021
    
  • Nonprofit Essentials & Accounting
    nonprofitready.org 2021
    
  • Copywriting
    American Writers & Artist 2017
  • Conversational Copywriting
    Udemy: Nick Usborne 2017
    
  • Business Administration
    San Joaquin Delta College 2015
    
  • Executive Secretary
    MTI Business School 2002


Other Previous Work Experience

  • Verizon (Third Party Distributor)
    Completed: 2020
    Customer Service and Sales
    
  • AT&T-DTV at Costco for Momentum Enterprises (temporary)
    Completed: 2019
    Customer Service and Sales
    
  • JCPenny Jewelry Sales (seasonal)
    Completed: 2019
    Customer Service and Sales
  • Self Employed Manicurist
    Still Licensed but inactive since 2018
    Customer Service and Technical Skills
  • Independent Insurance Sales
    Still Licensed but inactive since 2019
    Customer Service, Life and Health Insurance, Consulting, and sales
  • Gottschalks Cosmetics Counter Manager
    Completed: 2005
    (promoted from customer service representative) Sales and Beauty Consulting