Meet the Team: Assistant Director of Development and Community Relations Grace Flaspoehler

Each month, we introduce you to a member of the Upstate Forever staff through a few rapid fire questions. This month, get to know Assistant Director of Development and Community Relations Grace Flaspoehler!

What do you enjoy most about working for Upstate Forever?
What I enjoy most about Upstate Forever is the work culture this organization has. As a newer staff member, I was welcomed with open arms. People were genuinely interested in my background and what my past experiences were going to be able to ring to this new position I am in. In addition, everyone is very passionate in what they do and how we play such a major role in the future of the Upstate. 

Why is Upstate Forever's work important to you?
Being from Greenville, in just the few years I was away at college, I have seen major changes in the infrastructure and development of the city and county. Growth is great to see but in a responsible and manageable way. Upstate Forever’s work is so important to me in the fact that with our team we can protect the natural beauty of Greenville and the surrounding counties for future generations.

How long have you called the Upstate home?
I have called the Upstate home for my entire life. Minus the time I spent at Clemson for undergrad and a few years in Washington, DC following college, the Upstate has always been home for me.

What hobbies do you enjoy? 
I enjoy walking my Corgi, Pawley on the Prisma Health Swamp Rabbit Trail. I enjoy trying out new restaurants in town. In addition, I love coaching girls’ lacrosse. Just this past year I was able to get back involved in a sport that shaped my life by helping coach the JV Girls Lacrosse team at Christ Church Episcopal School. 

Where’s your ‘happy place?’
My happy place is on the beaches of South Carolina. Give me a book and a sunny day and I will always be content. 

More about Grace

Grace Flaspoehler is a native of the Upstate, growing up in Greenville. She graduated from Clemson University with a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and Communication. Following graduation she moved to Washington, D.C., where she gained experience in political fundraising and non-profit development. While in D.C., Grace earned her master’s in public administration with a concentration in non-profit management from George Mason University.

Grace is thrilled to be back in her hometown with her family and friends. In her spare time, you can find Grace on the Prisma Health Swamp Rabbit Trail walking her corgi, Pawley, spending time with her family and friends, and traveling to cities she has never visited.