Open to opportunities

Ciera Etter

@cieraetter

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Dynamic nonprofit leader with expertise in program management and equity.

United States

Message

What I'm looking for

I am looking for a role that allows me to drive impactful programs and foster community partnerships in a mission-driven organization.

I am a mission-driven leader with over 10 years of experience in program management, team leadership, and strategic growth within the nonprofit sector. My passion lies in empowering youth and families through innovative programs that create access and equity. As the Executive Director of Girls on the Run, I successfully increased program reach by 300% and grew the operating budget by over 200% through strategic partnerships and grant writing.

My previous roles have equipped me with a diverse skill set, including community outreach, marketing, and business development. I have a proven track record of fostering collaboration among stakeholders to drive impactful initiatives. My commitment to youth empowerment is evident in my work as a Lead Teacher, where I achieved the highest possible TVAAS score for student growth. I thrive in environments that prioritize sustainable change and community engagement.

Experience

Work history, roles, and key accomplishments

Executive Director

Girls on the Run of Greater Knoxville

Oct 2022 - Jan 2025 (2 years 3 months)

Led all facets of operations, programming, and strategic growth for Girls on the Run across five counties in East Tennessee, serving as the primary liaison to Girls on the Run International. Increased program reach by 300% over two years, expanding access and participation opportunities across the service area.

Program Management Strategic Growth Community Engagement Public Relations Event Planning Partnership Development Staff Training Strategic Planning

Interim Executive Director

Generous House Knoxville

Feb 2022 - Jan 2024 (1 year 11 months)

Appointed from the board of directors to serve as Interim Executive Director during a leadership transition, driving program expansion and operational growth. Expanded services from 40 families to over 3,000 individuals monthly, providing diapers, pantry staples, produce, and hot meals.

Program Expansion Partnership Management Budgeting Marketing Social Media Management Volunteer Management Community Outreach Food Pantry Operations Financial Management

Director of Marketing & Promotions

Empire Laser & Metal Work

Jul 2019 - Dec 2021 (2 years 5 months)

Managed internal marketing, sales materials, and brand strategy across multiple Empire Enterprises businesses, including retail, manufacturing, and custom metalwork. Designed digital and print assets to support sales, promotions, and brand consistency.

Marketing Management Brand Strategy SEO Event Coordination Online Sales

Elementary Lead English Language Arts Teacher

East End Prep

Jul 2017 - Jul 2019 (2 years)

Served as Lead Teacher for the upper elementary English Language Arts (ELA) program at East End Prep, a public charter school. Designed and implemented ELA curriculum aligned with Tennessee state standards, tailored to support the unique needs of at-risk students.

Curriculum Design Mentorship Student Engagement Educational Leadership At Risk Student Support Standardized Testing

Business Development Director

Schauer & Fettkether Law, PLLC

May 2015 - Jun 2017 (2 years 1 month)

Supported the firm’s business and client development efforts while preparing for the LSAT. Drafted business contracts, operating agreements, and bylaws for clients across various industries.

Business Development Contract Drafting Operating Agreement Drafting LLC Formations Corporate Compliance Process Improvement Business Law

Community Outreach Coordinator

Little Light House

May 2013 - May 2015 (2 years)

Spearheaded the launch of The Little Anchor, an innovative online platform providing resources for parents of children with special needs; achieved global reach with translations in 20+ languages and consistent international usage. Planned, managed, and promoted fundraising events that generated approximately $4 million annually, accounting for 60% of the organization’s operating budget.

Online Platform Launch Press Release Writing Grant Compliance PR Alignment Stakeholder Engagement

Education

Degrees, certifications, and relevant coursework

RELAY GRADUATE SCHOOL OF EDUCATION

Master of Art in Teaching & Educational Leadership, Educational Leadership and Teaching

2017 - 2019

Grade: 5

Activities and societies: Dean’s List, Emerging Scholar Award, RGSE

Designed and implemented ELA curriculum aligned with Tennessee state standards, tailored to support the unique needs of at-risk students. Provided leadership and mentorship to ELA program staff, ensuring instructional consistency and student engagement. Achieved a TVAAS score of 5, the highest possible rating for student growth and academic impact.

ORAL ROBERTS UNIVERSITY

Bachelor of Science in Media, Media

2009 - 2013

Activities and societies: Whole Person Scholar, Oral Roberts Unv.

Studied media with a minor in Public Relations. Gained skills in program management, youth engagement, community outreach, and relationship building. Developed technical and administrative skills including data management and reporting systems.