While it might not seem like it at the time, each step along our professional journey helps prepare us for ultimate success. We learn what we like and what we don’t, what we’re good at, and where we could improve. We gain skills along the way and refine our personal definition of success.
Tiffany Hunt, chief development officer for the Anne Carlsen Center, has a very diverse resume, spanning across industries and states. While this collection of experiences might seem disjointed on paper, the wealth of knowledge Hunt gained along the way uniquely positioned her for success in the nonprofit sector.
“I’ve always known I wanted to be of service and help people in some capacity,” Hunt said. “For me, it was easy to take the leap, even between industries, because I believe God has really shown me where I’m supposed to go and when I’m supposed to do it. I just lean into it. Doors have opened and people have literally jumped into my path and made it so obvious where I’m supposed to be.”
Twists and turns
Growing up in a generational farm family, Hunt learned the value of service at an early age. “It was never ‘look out for number one,’” she said. “It was always look out for how you can help other people.”
Right out of high school, she was working as a massage therapist for a local chiropractic clinic, helping treat athletic and auto accident injuries. From there, Hunt explored becoming a child psychologist. But it was her minor in business that really piqued her interest in helping others and making a positive impact.
“I had to take some random business classes because they were required,” she said. “I didn’t intend to like those at all, but the professors just made you want to learn. So, I ended up switching.”
Like many, she explored retail opportunities while in school. Another thing she didn’t intend to like. However, specializing in engagement ring sales with Helzberg Diamonds allowed her to serve in a different capacity. And she was good at it.
These unique experiences made her something special, as she switched industries again and began working in higher ed.
“I thought, ‘How can I combine my love of hearing people’s stories and wanting to serve and have a purpose,’” she said. “My husband was working at the School of Mines, and they were looking for somebody to do fundraising work. I interviewed for the role, even though I’d never done fundraising before. They took a chance on me, and I was able to do some amazing things.”
It all comes together
Hunt gained more fundraising experience with the NDSU Foundation, and while she was dedicated to the organization and the school, she felt there was more she could be doing to serve her community. When an opportunity with the Anne Carlsen Center came up, she couldn’t help feeling called.
“I have family members who have disabilities and developmental delays,” she said. “Connecting with that mission on a very personal level made it easy. Providing services to these children and their families from birth changes the trajectory of their whole life.”
For Hunt, working with the Anne Carlsen Center finally feels like her personal definition of success. She’s able to use the wide range of skills developed over her diverse employment background to serve a deserving community. Each stepping stone, from her early career in massage therapy to retail and fundraising, has paved the way for personal and professional fulfillment.
“I love being able to help other people, whether that’s through managing teams or inspiring philanthropic gifts to an organization that, in turn, helps children,” Hunt said. “There were times I wasn’t sure that I could do it, but all the signs were saying this is what you’re supposed to do. And I’m a firm believer if somebody gives you the opportunity and you don’t know how to do it, take it and then figure it out when you get there.”
A bright future
The Anne Carlsen Center is currently preparing for a busy summer. The organization recently completed the move to the state-of-the-art Ballantyne Berg Campus in Jamestown. The campus serves as the new home of Anne Carlsen Center’s comprehensive array of educational services, outpatient therapies, residential care, and more.
Hunt and her development team played a major role in funding the new facility and they can’t wait to welcome the community during the celebration and grand opening event on June 6, starting at noon. For more information, visit the organization’s event page at annecarlsen.org/ events.
Learn more about the Anne Carlsen Center and how you can join Hunt in helping others enjoy greater independence and quality of life at annecarlsen.org/careers.
“I think if you really want to impact the lives of others in a really positive way, then this is the organization to do it,” Hunt said. “There are so many different avenues to serve, whether you want to work with early intervention, special education, nursing, or physical therapy, there are a million ways to do this job and impact people’s lives in a positive way.”