Meet Maleah Amos
Maleah Amos is the development and marketing coordinator at Catholic Charities Diocese of Monterey in California. She brought 10 years of nonprofit experience with her to the O’Neill Online program (formerly SPEA Connect).
O’Neill Online is much more than an online program. I have made lifelong friends and mentors here.
Why did you choose the O’Neill Online MPA program?
My mentor went to IU and I have always been impressed with her expansive knowledge of nonprofit management. When I saw that O’Neill was the then #2 (now #1!) program for public affairs, it sealed the deal!
How has the flexibility of the online program helped you to balance all of your responsibilities?
The flexibility of the online program has allowed me to raise my children, live as a military spouse, and build my career all at once. When I started the program, I was pregnant and living in Virginia. I now work full-time and have a two, six, and nine year old; and my husband is also finishing his master’s degree. We are busy! The online program allows me to engage as my busy schedule allows. Additionally, the work I do in O’Neill aligns with my work goals. I describe school and work as yin and yang. Using my job for my school projects has facilitated the opportunity to offer real life solutions to work challenges. A plan that I worked on in O’Neill has gone before my agency’s board of directors and has opened doors to me for promotion!
What are your main academic/policy areas of interest and what led you to those interests?
I have a passion for nonprofit management and leadership. The third sector, in my opinion, is society’s opportunity to fill in the gaps that are overlooked by the free market and government perspectives. We have the flexibility to stand for our communities and lead from the ground. We are a large part of America’s future success. I am delighted to be a part of such a transformative movement.
Is there anything else you would like prospective students to know about you or your experience in the program?
O’Neill Online is much more than an online program. I have made lifelong friends and mentors here. I will take these relationships with me as I continue in the professional world. O’Neill is an irreplaceable experience.