Tiffany Kress was born and raised in Reno, Nevada, where she graduated from THE University of Nevada with her Bachelor of Science in Education with a minor in Mathematics. She eventually earned her Master of Education in Curriculum and Instruction. She applied both degrees over her twelve years as a math and leadership educator in Washoe County School District, where she coupled her love for service with her passion for helping young adults reach their goals.

As the Marketing and Development Manager at NNCCF, Tiffany is responsible for developing community partnerships, while managing marketing efforts and public relations.

When she’s not working, she enjoys traveling, walking the Truckee River, soaking in the sun at Tahoe or local events, and spending time with her musically talented husband, their friends, and their sweet yorkie, Rocky.

Why I started working at NNCCF:
I started working with NNCCF as a community partner and was amazed by the work the foundation does in our community. As a northern Nevada native, I am passionate about philanthropic work that lifts our community and allows neighbors to help their neighbors. Having cared for my father through his cancer diagnosis, I understand the financial and emotional toll it can take on a family and I am honored to work for a foundation that relieves some of that burden, especially for parents as they face this journey with their child. NNCCF marries my love for my community with my passion for living a life of service.

Ask me about:
All genres of music, The Office, dogs, and my love of numbers!

What I think is amazing:
I think humans are amazing! I have watched humans overcome adversity, create something out of nothing, and have the kindest hearts despite their circumstances. The inherent nature of humans to want to be kind and helpful is wonderful to experience.

Something quirky about me:
I love all things glitter and rhinestones! I am also a human jukebox. I can’t tell you the name of a song or the artist, but if you say something that sounds like a line from a song or a commercial jingle, I will sing the line 99% of the time. No quality guarantee.

My role model:
My dad, he was the hardest-working human I know, who dedicated his life to supporting his family. The lessons he taught me have made me who I am today, and I am grateful to have had the privilege of being his daughter.

My favorite quote:
“It’s never too late to be who you might’ve been” – George Eliot
“Great things are done by a series of small things brought together”- Vincent Van Gogh

Joan Carpenter and her twin sister were born in San Francisco and raised in the Bay Area. She graduated from the University of Nevada, Reno with a BA in education with a Major in Physical Education and a minor in Art. She continued at UNR earning a MEd in Secondary Education and an MA in Counseling and Guidance. Joan taught for a year at Herlong High School in California and taught for 35 years at Procter R. Hug High School, retiring in 2006.

Joan retired from teaching and began volunteering with NNCCF in 2009. Though she’s technically “not on the payroll” we consider her staff. At NNCCF, Joan produces donor receipts and thank you letters, and helps at events when she can. She is a staple of our team, and we don’t know what we’d do without her!

When not at NNCCF, you can find Joan painting with her Botanical Buddies, making snuggle buddies for care packages, or trying to keep up with her two grandchildren. She is a tenacious person, if there is a problem or something is broken, she won’t stop until she solves or fixes it!

Why I started volunteering (working) at NNCCF:
After a couple of years of retirement, I realized I missed having a routine, helping others, and just being in a social atmosphere. I was lucky when a friend of mine suggested I apply to volunteer at NNCCF. Truly, my lucky day. In my 14 years, NNCCF has more than quadrupled in staff and office space. I am the oldest member of the staff, but the others make me feel young. What a warm, caring, and generous group I get to be a part of.

Ask me about:
What an older person can add or offer to a group of young professionals.

What is amazing to me:
When our children, clients, come to the office almost always smiling and laughing, and knowing what they have or will be going through in treatment.

Something quirky about me:
I like to vacuum. Yes, it gives me time to exercise, think, and accomplish something all at once.

My role model:
My parents.

My favorite quote:
“A friend is a gift you give yourself.” – Robert Louis Stevenson