Ethan McCoy

Former Position at CEP
Senior Writer, Development and Communications

Length of Tenure at CEP
6.5 years


What are you up to these days?
I am the writing & communications manager at Grassroot Soccer, an adolescent health organization that uses the power of soccer to equip young people in developing countries with the knowledge, life skills, and mentorship they need to overcome their greatest health challenges.

How did your time at CEP prepare you for what you are doing now?
My time at CEP on the programming and external relations team not only made me a stronger writer and editor, it also made me a better listener, which helps me immensely in my current role. Additionally, working at an organization that prioritizes feedback, both in the services and resources it offers to the field and within its own culture, has made me more effective at giving and receiving feedback well, which is essential in a writing role.

What do you miss most about working at CEP?
First and foremost is the people. CEP colleagues are kind, smart, and caring, and I miss talking to and learning from them every day. On top of that, I miss having the opportunity to meet lots of interesting people from throughout the field of philanthropy, whether it was at CEP conferences or through my work with guest authors on the CEP blog. I also miss The Field (RIP).

What advice would you give someone about working at CEP?
Get to know your colleagues and don’t be afraid to ask questions, even if you think they’re stupid ones.

Describe your perfect Sunday.
Liverpool has an early (but not too early) kickoff and I watch them cruise to a comfortable three points from the comfort of my couch. After that, I meet up with friends for a day spent outdoors enjoying a 67-degree and breezy day, before grabbing dinner and a beer together on a patio. I then return home for a movie that is no longer than 95 minutes.

Ethan McCoy