Investor Partner Spotlight: Doug Wells
Meet Doug Wells! Doug is one of our incredible Investor Partners. We connected with him recently to learn more about his work with SVP, his passions, and how he spends his days. We were inspired, and think you will be too!
Why did you join SVP Portland and how are you involved?
I have been engaged around SVP for about ten years – especially during my time working at Children’s Institute. I am thrilled to join as a Partner and focus on ways that I can add value to this important organization. My day job is with CLA (public accounting firm) as an outsourced CFO for nonprofits across the country. So far, I have mostly been involved on the finance team and focused around nonprofit finance, and I am always open to other ways I can contribute.
What do you find most rewarding about being a Partner?
The people and the mission. The staff, board, and Partners are quality people and professionals and are committed to equitable early childhood education. Also, there’s a clear focus on making SVP as sustainable as possible and thinking about the long game – which is absolutely critical.
Why is our early childhood goal important to you?
Quality early childhood experiences are the foundation for our kids’ success. I have come to realize that the work that we do prior to our children joining the K-12 system is fundamentally more important than any other thing we can do. While SVP is not a direct service provider, we can and do provide technical assistance, support, and play a convening role around best practices.
How do you spend your days?
Working, reading, cooking, and traveling when I can. I love what I do, and I am always on a quest to stay a life-long learner. And the travel I am lucky enough to enjoy with my job, my daughter, and my partner gives me great fulfillment.
What superpowers do you have?
I like to think of myself as a connector of people – so relationships. There is so much power in what we can do together both personally and professionally, and I love to play even a small role in bringing people together.
What motivates you in life?
I have always loved and tried to live by the phrase “be the change.” That might be in larger ways around education, politics, or nonprofits as a change force, or in small ways with friends and family. I try my hardest to play an active role in positive change, not just someone who talks about it. I’m much more interested in possibilities than obstacles.
What do you like to do to put a smile on your face?
I love making a good meal and seeing the faces of those who are eating and the (hopefully) smiles and sighs of satisfaction. I also get great joy from going to the farmer’s market and pickling fresh veggies.
