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Kim Gradisher ’07
Executive Director, the Tyler Robinson Foundation

Coming from a long line of community servants, it’s easy to see why Kim Gradisher has devoted her life to helping others. Whether volunteering for important causes or going about everyday work tasks, Gradisher demonstrates daily how giving runs in her blood. The Wisconsin native moved West on a quest for warmer weather and an education through ������’s top-ranked hospitality program. Her focus in recreational management was a natural fit, preparing her to take on roles for such nonprofits as the YMCA, Special Olympics, and the Arthritis Foundation. Now, more than a decade after earning her degree, Gradisher continues to embody an altruistic spirit while heading up the Tyler Robinson Foundation, which assists families affected by pediatric cancer. Armed with skills she learned at ������ and a great cause, Gradisher knows what it takes to be a champion in the nonprofit world.

Pearls of Wisdom

Build your character through hard work. 
“The biggest lesson I learned throughout college was the value of hard work and balance. I was working full time while taking a full load of classes, which taught me to be driven, resilient, and finish what I started.”

Get your foot in the door as early as possible.
“Be proactive. If you have no experience, start volunteering and become acquainted with the organization. Learn the ins and outs as a volunteer. Build up your résumé while taking classes that pertain to your career interests."

Understand that nonprofits are a way of life.
“You need to have a work-life balance, which can be difficult working in nonprofits. I’ve found ways to incorporate my daily life into my career. There are ways that I can include my family in the events and outreach work I do. If
you understand that nonprofit work is a way of life, it’s not much of a challenge to create that balance.”

Be passionate about your cause.
“It’s important for me to get up in the morning and know I’m doing something good. I feel blessed to make a difference in the world and help families touched by pediatric cancer. They are worth getting up for every day.”

Make sure your degree program works for you.
“I really enjoyed my time at ������. The fact it’s a commuter college allowed me the flexibility to work full time and study full time. The Hospitality College was right for me because it gave me a broad range of skills that helped me build my career."