Alumni Spotlight: Kallan Wentworth

Class of 2015

Degree:

Hometown:

Alexandria, Va.

Current Role:

Director of Major Gifts & Donor Services at The Salvation Army (National Capital Area Command)

What is your background, and what originally brought you to Marymount?

I’m a double Air Force brat, as both of my parents were in the Air Force. I was born in California, but we eventually moved to Alexandria, where they completed three tours at the Pentagon. When they retired, they decided to stay, so Alexandria became home. In high school, I had originally committed to either the College of Charleston or Charleston Southern, but late in the year, I suddenly felt unsure about going that far away. My mom suggested looking into a college in Arlington that checked all my boxes, and once we visited Marymount for a Junior Day, everything clicked. The campus felt perfect, close to home but not too close, small, welcoming and full of programs I was excited about. It turned out to be the best last-minute decision I ever made.

What was your experience like at Marymount?

I had a great experience at Marymount. Even though I was a psychology major, many of my closest friends were in the Fashion Merchandising program, so I spent a lot of time with them. I participated in Portfolio in Motion as a model and worked on the student-led Voyage to Utopia fashion show, which ended up shaping my career path without me even realizing it. I’ve always loved volunteering and doing things like pet adoptions or helping with 5Ks, but that event was my first introduction to fundraising and event logistics. We raised money for an international charity as well as the Marymount Student Fund, and looking back, that experience planted the seed for my future in nonprofit work.

I always wanted to study psychology because I’ve always been fascinated by people, how they think, behave and communicate. One of the most impactful experiences I had was traveling to Kenya with Dr. Lopresti-Goodman, where we studied African animal welfare and worked with nonprofits. That experience helped shape my understanding of the analytical and humanitarian aspects of nonprofit work.

One of the things I loved the most about Marymount was how much service was integrated into the culture. It was something that everyone was doing and it felt good to be a part of a community that wanted to give back.

What do you do in your current role?

I’m the Director of Major Gifts and Donor Services at The Salvation Army in the National Capital Area Command. My role is a blend of analytics and creativity. I oversee how money comes into our mission, through donor-advised funds, cash gifts and in-kind donations, and I manage how we thank and steward donors through receipts, acknowledgments and letters. I also help with messaging by collecting stories, creating content and supporting our digital fundraising, social media, mail and other outreach efforts. It’s a role that allows me to help shape the full donor experience from beginning to end.

People think of the Salvation Army during the holidays, but what does your team do year-round?

A lot of people associate The Salvation Army with the holidays because we run more visible programs like the Angel Trees and Red Kettles. Angel Tree is a gift assistance program for children and families, while Red Kettles are fundraising stations that help support all the work we do. Donations made at a specific kettle stay within that zip code, directly impacting the surrounding community.

But people don’t realize that The Salvation Army actually operates all year round and provides support to a variety of local populations. The organization is nationwide, but each local center adapts to its community’s needs.

Across the DMV, we provide rental and emergency financial assistance to help families with utilities like water, gas and electricity. We also offer extensive food programs, including pantries, produce distributions and warm meals. Our mobile outreach team delivers meals to individuals experiencing homelessness every day. In D.C., we run transitional housing programs, primarily supporting single mothers with education in financial literacy and parenting. Beyond social services, The Salvation Army is also a church, so the DMV region hosts worship services and community events throughout the year.

Why is service important to you? Why should students participate in service or volunteer-based opportunities?

I grew up with parents who worked incredibly hard to give me everything I needed, and I’ve always felt called to give back to the community that raised me. Service has always been part of who I am, and Marymount naturally emphasized giving back. Volunteering helps build a sense of purpose, community and empathy. It also helps students grow personally and professionally by getting them involved in work that makes a difference.

There are many ways to get involved, from volunteering as a bell ringer at Red Kettles to assisting with toy distribution, helping with food programs or prepping food bags for seniors. Students can also host toy drives or support Angel Tree. Each DMV region has its own volunteer page with listings throughout the year. Every volunteer opportunity is a chance to make a difference in someone else’s life. I think everyone should find a way to get involved!

What advice do you have for students and new professionals?

For students: do everything. Say yes to opportunities, even if they don’t seem connected to your major or your long-term plan. I never imagined that helping with a fashion show would lead me to event planning, fundraising and ultimately my career, but those experiences opened doors I never expected. You never know what will help you discover your passions.

For young professionals: give yourself grace. Transitioning into the workforce is scary, you’re applying everywhere, comparing yourself to others, and trying to figure out your path. But every interview, every awkward moment, every challenge teaches you something that prepares you for the opportunity you’re meant to have. You end up exactly where you’re meant to be.

For everyone: wherever you go, keep a servant’s heart. Look for workplaces that value giving back, through service opportunities, volunteer outings and community engagement. You’ll always feel more fulfilled when your job aligns with your values.