10/01/2026
Meet Nicolette Occhifinto ’24, a Clemson graduate who discovered a hidden pathway to a career in philanthropy through the Nonprofit Leadership minor. 🌟
What inspired you to choose the Nonprofit Leadership? 🧡
I had always been actively involved in community service throughout high school, so when I saw this offered as a course option, it instantly caught my attention. For me, pursuing the NPL minor allowed me to combine my strong business background with my philanthropic passion. I was lucky enough to complete my NPL Preceptorship at Dabo’s All In Team Foundation as a Marketing & Event Planning Intern. During that preceptorship, I really experienced firsthand what it was like working in a fast-paced and real work environment.
How did NPL influence your career path after Clemson? 🎓
My Nonprofit Leadership minor 100% impacted the path I took after Clemson. Immediately after graduation in 2024, I joined the Ronald McDonald House Charities of the Carolinas as their Communications Manager. At the beginning of this year, I was promoted to Development Manager, so I now oversee all fundraising operations, including large scale event planning, portfolio management, and donor relations. It’s been an incredibly meaningful, full circle moment to oversee the RMHC internship program and work directly with Clemson students who are going through NPL right now.
Why do you encourage Clemson students to pursue NPL? 🤝
I think opportunities in the corporate philanthropy and nonprofit sector aren’t talked about enough. Whenever I speak to Clemson students, I always tell them that it’s okay to pursue the path less traveled. That doesn’t mean everyone has to work for a nonprofit, it really aligns with Clemson’s question of “How will you serve?” The NPL minor reminds students of their civic responsibility that go beyond the classroom to always be people first.
