Partner Highlight: Kristin Payne
In this continuing series, we are highlighting how Partners are using their skills to make a great impact through SVP Portland.
Kristin Payne, who joined as a Partner in February, didn’t tiptoe into engagement -- she jumped in with both feet! So far, she has joined our Equity Team, our Portfolio Management Team, and our Policy/Advocacy Team. She is also supporting our partnership with The Portland Children’s Museum and beginning to provide support with the Threads of Justice Collective partnership. Whew!
Kristin was born and raised in the midwest -- Ohio to be exact. After completing graduate school in Industrial-Organizational Psychology (I-O), she moved to Oregon with her soon-to-be husband, Mike, to “live somewhere different for awhile.” They soon realized they had found the place for them and, much to their families' disappointment, it was a permanent move. Kristin was quickly overwhelmed with raising twin girls and, committing to that, she put career aspirations aside for the time being. Many years and volunteer nonprofit leadership experiences later, she is now working in the nonprofit space in evaluation, impact, and program development. When not at work, Kristin is wrangling high school seniors, playing with her dog, or on an SVP Zoom call. She is also a CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocate) for youth in Washington County.
Q: Why did you choose to invest with SVP Portland?
A: I am passionate about early childhood education. In particular, my background in I-O focuses me on the systemic issues that result in inequities. My husband, Mike, attended an SVP Portland event and mentioned that he thought it might be a good fit for my skills and interests. I looked into the model, met with Matt Little, and I was sold. The focus on priority population students and access to high-quality, culturally-responsive education matches my passions in a way that I haven’t found elsewhere.
Q: What have you found to be most rewarding during your time as a Partner?
A: Since joining SVP, I have realized what a unique place it is. The staff -- as we all know -- are amazing. After meeting Matt, I expected as much. What I’ve really been struck by is the Partners. SVP boasts many highly-successful, highly-knowledgeable Partners. The collective influence and intellectual capital is, not surprisingly, exceptional. The way Partners support, respect, and value one another and the Community Partners is exceptional as well. The way conversations happen, the listening that takes place, the compassion and appreciation for every person’s input and perspective -- is inspiring and what I believe makes us valuable allies and partners with our community. I am grateful for each Partner I have met and the supportive facilitation from the Board and staff.