Shelly O’Quinn leads Spokane-based nonprofit Innovia Foundation as CEO, working to expand the organization's impact in the Inland Northwest through developing partnerships, increasing philanthropic investment, and championing initiatives that support rural communities, families, and other nonprofits.

Since joining the organization in 2017, O’Quinn says she's proud to have helped support the development and launch of LaunchNW, a community driven initiative focused on increasing postsecondary attainment and creating pathways for each student in the region. Seeing it gain momentum and uniting partners across business sectors has been one of her most meaningful career milestones, she says.

A deep desire to serve the community drives her work at Innovia Foundation and she emphasizes the important role healthy communication and strong community partnerships has played in her philanthropic success.

Education: Bachelor’s degree in accounting and business management, Whitworth University; MBA, Middlebury Institute of International Studies at Monterey.

What would you tell others looking to follow a similar career path to yours? Stay curious, stay humble, and stay connected to your community. Philanthropy and public service require both heart and discipline, so invest in relationships, understand the systems you want to influence, and never lose sight of the people you’re serving.

What’s one thing that makes you most proud? My two sons. Now 20 and 26, they’ve grown into thoughtful, grounded, and genuinely kind young men. Watching them find their own paths and become people of character has been one of the greatest joys of my life.

Why did you choose your career path? My career path reflects who I am at my core. I’ve always been driven by a deep desire to serve my community, and every role I’ve held has given me the opportunity to serve others and strengthen the places we call home. Working at Innovia Foundation allows me to live out my purpose every day — bringing people together, creating opportunities, and making our world a better place.