Jenny Sowash, Donor Services Coordinator, Columbus Zoo and Aquarium

Do you have any side hustles?

I am the owner of Vintage Promotions which runs an arts and crafts show called ChristmasFair at the Ohio Expo Center every November the weekend before Thanksgiving.

How did you get into fundraising and/or prospect research?

I have worked at the Columbus Zoo for over thirty years. I have been lucky enough to be in the correct spot at the right time and have been able to grow with the Zoo. I love to learn new software and to figure out how to do new things. I went from being the mail clerk to running the computer helpdesk when everyone was learning how to use Windows and Office products. I volunteered to take a class on Raiser’s Edge and somehow I ended up running the donor database and researching donors. I will always be grateful for the opportunities I’ve had to learn and grow. Always be willing to learn!

What are you reading now?

I am a voracious consumer of audio books. I download them from the library and usually listen to at least two a week. 

What do you listen to on your commute?

Audio Books!

What is your favorite dessert?

Anything chocolate and ala mode.

What skill would you like to master?

Plumbing! Dripping faucets are so annoying.

What’s your favorite thing about what you do or where you work?

I am part of a great team who make coming to work everyday fun and interesting. You never know what you will see at the Zoo!