Each week, #SpanningtheNeed will present an “Inspirational Person of the Week’ and have a “Q & A” with one of its many gifted individuals and/or groups who are willing to go out of their own way to help others. This week’s featured is Courtney Lockshaw from Youngstown Area Jewish Federation.
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Name: Courtney Lockshaw
Position: IncomingFinancial Resource Development Director (starting November 19th)
Organization: Youngstown Area Jewish Federation
Bio
Courtney Lockshaw will begin her role as the Financial Resource Development Director with the Youngstown Area Jewish Federation in mid-November. She is excited to join this dynamic team and return “home” after beginning her professional career with the JCC of Youngstown’s Marketing/Membership Department. Before accepting this new position, she was the Development Director for the Northeast Ohio Chapter of the American Heart Association (AHA). During her time with the AHA, she led successful fundraising campaigns, managed relationships with community partners, and organized volunteers. Courtney was also personally dedicated to educating individuals on the lifesaving skill of hands-only CPR and AED awareness. She holds a Master of Business Administration with a concentration in Leadership from Youngstown State University and a Bachelor of Business Administration in Marketing and Entrepreneurship from Kent State University. As a Youngstown native, she is passionate about working within our local community and seeing this area thrive. Courtney enjoys spending time with her family and friends in her free time, snuggling with her dogs, traveling, baking, indoor cycling, and volunteering.
What made you want to go into this field?
My professional career started in the non-profit world, and it was in that role I learned first-hand the importance of giving back to your community. It was not until I stepped away for a little, that I truly realized what I thought was a small impact that helped and affected many people’s lives.
What’s the biggest factor that has helped you be successful?
The continuous support and love from my family, friends, and community.
What is the biggest professional mistake you made along the way?
Like anyone, I have made mistakes along the way, but I do not regret any of them. Every mistake or step back has taught me a valuable lesson for the future.
If you could start all over again, what would you do differently regarding your profession?
Like any profession, there are many tough decisions to be made but the important part is how you work through them and move forward. If I could start all over, I would have taken advantage of more internship opportunities in high school and college to learn more about all career opportunities.
What inspires you to do good in our community?
I was born and raised in the Mahoning Valley as were my parents. There is a lot of family history and roots for me in this town which makes it extra special. I want to do my part to continue to inspire future generations to get involved.
What do you enjoy most about volunteering in our community?
I love the small-town feel of “everyone knows everyone” as you always have a connection in common. I also feel that this community is very supportive, loving, and hardworking. They want to see you succeed and thrive. I enjoy everything about growing up and working in the Mahoning Valley and look forward to the impact I can make in the area.
What song best describes you or is the soundtrack to your life?
Here Comes the Sun- The Beatles or Nina Simone’s version
What is your best accomplishment/experience in life?
I am proud of many achievements throughout the start of my career. I’ve had the opportunity to work with inspiring community leaders and organizations that work hard every day to make the Valley a better, safer, healthier place to live. I am glad to be part of this group effort.
Who is your role model and Why?
My parents, David and Judy Lockshaw, will be my forever role models. My list of reasons is endless, but they continuously show up for their family, friends, and community. They are both the most kind-hearted, hardest-working people I know. They are always my biggest supporters, best listeners, and sometimes travel buddies! They have taught me many life lessons and raised me to always believe in myself and treat everyone with kindness and respect.
A favorite quote that you live by.
“Authenticity is the daily practice of letting go of who we think we’re supposed to be and embracing who we are.” — Brené Brown
