Carmen Gilbert joined the UNLV Foundation this summer, but LSAT study sessions at Lied Library introduced her to the campus even before that. Now she’s a Rebel twice over: Working at the Foundation as a development officer while pursuing a degree at the William S. Boyd School of Law.
Prior to UNLV, Gilbert worked on nonprofit and community outreach for U.S. Sen. Harry Reid and served in the Peace Corps in Guatemala.
Why UNLV?
It’s an exciting time in the community as we’re coming back from the recession and the university is on the brink of some huge changes. I wanted to be a part of that. I really wanted to get into the thick of it and be on that team.
You worked in a women’s center in the Peace Corps. What was that experience like?
They call the Peace Corps the toughest job you’ll ever love. They are really tough days and you deal with a lot of cultural and language [challenges], day-to-day frustrations, and loneliness. But… it really does change you for the better. There’s nothing else like taking yourself out of your life and plopping down in a completely foreign place and starting over.
What do you do for the UNLV Foundation?
I’m with annual giving, which is the unrestricted fund. That’s the money that can be used for anything on campus, especially the really critical needs. I’ll be engaging with students, parents, and recent grads. I'm looking forward to connecting with them; their giving is vital!
What are some misconceptions people might have about your field?
That fundraisers are slick salespeople. We’re really more interested in connecting with the community, building relationships. We help [donors] feel like their money supports the things they’re passionate about. We’re not selling something they don’t want; we’re helping them support things they already love.
What would someone be surprised to learn about you?
I’m actually an introvert, which is surprising considering the work I’ve done in community outreach and now fundraising. I do push myself a little more, but at the end of the week I do need to recharge. I don’t fit the development stereotype.
Who is your hero and why?
My mom. She left her home in a tiny province of the Philippines at 16 to work in Manila. Later on, she met my father and left her home country behind to live in the United States. She worked in a casino downtown for many years and was very successful there. I don’t know if I could have done that, to leave the house at 16 to strike out on your own. She’s a strong woman; she’s independent, but she’s also very loving.
How do you spend your free time?
I have a “little” through Big Brothers Big Sisters. I like spending time with her. When it’s not so hot outside, I do a little bit of running. I’ve actually done three half marathons.
How does it feel to be in the student role again?
I’m excited just to be back on a campus in any form. I love the energy of an academic setting. I’m looking forward to being back in the classroom and being challenged. Law school changes how you approach arguments, how you write, and how you think.
Plus, my dad is a two-time UNLV alum who got his master's and doctorate as a non-traditional student. He’s pretty thrilled that I’m finally going to be a Rebel.
