Vanessa M.

About Vanessa M.

I am a decisive, professional business leader with 20+ years of experience solving complex business and operational issues. I am an innovative leader directing human resources, and operations to achieve maximum positive results and meeting goals. I have cross-functional leadership skills that work well in high-pressure, challenging, and deadline-driven environments. I can work with diverse stakeholders. I can analyze organizational structures, business processes, performance measures, and evaluate criteria to transform operations, increase efficiency, and align internal strategies with crucial policy changes. I am skilled in program development, process implementation, grant writing/management, policy development, Intergroup Dialogue, business consulting, data analysis, and community development. I have managed a nonprofit from start-up to operations to programming. I can evaluate and measure program outcomes to meet the goals and objectives of an organization using quantitative and quantitative data. I have strong financial management skills and understand the budget process. I enjoy creative problem solving and getting exposure on multiple projects and would excel in a collaborative environment. I work well in fast-paced environments and can lead a diverse team. I have excellent administrative skills. I am above proficient using Microsoft Office inlcuding Word, Excel, and PowerPoint; Google Suite; and Salesforce. I have experience creating newsletters and sending them using Constant Contact and Mail Chimp. I am a strong administrative professional with a Bachelor\'s degree in Policy Studies, a minor in Social Work and an MBA, with a concentration in Entrepreneurial Leadership and Strategy from Chatham University. I am currently working on a Masters in Policy and Public Management from the University of Pittsburgh. I am looking for either a Chief of Staff or Governmental Affairs position.

Experience

1. Program Manager

   Community Forge

   Feb 2026 — Present · Pittsburgh, PA, US

   Lead implementation of the Cure Violence public health model for Cure Violence East Program that serves Wilkinsburg, Pennsylvania Hills, East Hills, and Homewood. We focus on interrupting cycles of violence through community-based intervention and prevention strategies. Oversee violence interruption, high-risk outreach, and community engagement initiatives designed to mediate conflicts, reduce retaliation, and address trauma at its root. Manage program operations, staff coordination, data reporting, and stakeholder partnerships while working closely with community leaders, residents, and service providers.Advance a public health approach to community safety by strengthening neighborhood relationships, connecting individuals to resources, and promoting long-term violence prevention.

Education

• Community College of Allegheny County

  Associates

  2011 — 2014

• University of Pittsburgh

  Master of Public Administration - MPA

  2021 — 2023

• Chatham University

  Bachelor's degree

  2015 — 2018

• Chatham University

  Master of Business Administration (MBA)

  2017 — 2019