Jennifer Nichols

Board Member

Executive Director/Founder of the Aspire Carolinas Foundation

Jennifer holds a Bachelor of Science in Education from Malone University in Canton, Ohio and completed additional coursework in reading education (Eastern Michigan University) and developmental disabilities (CPCC). She taught for nine years in Michigan before moving to North Carolina and changing careers. After several years in sales and management, she entered the non-profit field. She is a certified grants writer and seasoned fundraiser working with organizations such as InReach, The Arc of Mecklenburg, The American Red Cross, and Discovery Place. Jennifer most recently worked at The John Crosland School as Director of Institutional Advancement. For eight years she was responsible for fund development, program development, marketing and public relations. The opportunity to start the Foundation and serve as Executive Director of Aspire Carolinas marks the culmination of a lifetime dream.  She always wanted to start an educational non-profit that would address the needs of underserved populations such as students with learning differences, Asperger’s and those needing career and technical options.

Cathy Fasciana

Marketing and Communications

Cathy attended Lafayette College and then transferred to Seton Hall University where she received her B.S. degree in Secondary Education and History. She completed her M.S. degree in Management (HR Concentration) at the College of St. Elizabeth. Cathy previously worked in Human Resources Management for ten years. After relocating to Charlotte she took the position of Advancement and Communications Coordinator at The John Crosland School. Cathy is excited to bring her website administration, marketing, social media, writing, administrative and communications experience to her new role at the Aspire Carolinas Foundation.

Jessie Norman

Operations and Fundraising Manager

Jessie received his business degree from Gaston College. Jessie has over ten years of experience working with children and adults with developmental disabilities. Jessie began his career working at a non-profit group as a Direct Support Activity aide for adults with disabilities. He was then promoted to Insurance Billing Administrator, Manager, and finally to Office Administrator. Jessie also helped the non-profit in raising funds. After a career change, Jessie spent 3 years working at a mortgage company. He was hired as a Mortgage Processing Assistant and he was promoted to Underwriter’s Assistant. Jessie is excited to bring his excellent administration and fundraising skills and his passion for exceptional students to his new role as Operations and Fundraising Manager at Aspire Carolinas Foundation.