Gretchen Brandt
About Gretchen Brandt
Gretchen Brandt is a Senior Administrative Assistant at American Electric Power, where she has worked since 2021. She has a strong background in grant management and administrative support, with a Master's degree in International Affairs from Texas A&M University.
Work at American Electric Power
Gretchen Brandt has served as an Administrative Assistant, Sr at American Electric Power since 2021. In this role, she has played a significant part in deploying $10 million in annual funds that align with the company's philanthropic objectives. She has represented grantmaking requirements for prominent foundations, including L Brands and Ingram-White Castle Foundations. Her responsibilities include coordinating high-profile administrative functions, which encompass meeting planning, calendar management, travel coordination, and community relations.
Education and Expertise
Gretchen Brandt earned a Master of International Affairs from Texas A&M University - The Bush School of Government and Public Service, focusing on the National Security Track from 2007 to 2009. She also holds a Bachelor of Arts in International Studies and German from The Ohio State University, which she completed from 2004 to 2007. Her educational background supports her expertise in strategic messaging and communications, which she has applied throughout her career.
Background
Before joining American Electric Power, Gretchen Brandt held several positions that contributed to her administrative expertise. She worked as an Operations Analyst at TechOp Solutions International for 11 months in 2013. Following that, she served as an Executive Administrator at Osteopathic Heritage Foundations from 2019 to 2021. Additionally, she spent six years as a Supporting Foundations Grants Management & Outreach Coordinator at The Columbus Foundation, where she developed skills in grant management and outreach.
Achievements
Throughout her career, Gretchen Brandt has demonstrated her ability to coordinate high-profile administrative functions effectively. She has worked closely with board members and organization executives to support their administrative needs, allowing them to focus on their contributions as thought leaders. She has also crafted custom communications to advance strategic messaging and priorities, showcasing her proficiency in aligning administrative functions with organizational goals.
Strengths and Skills
Gretchen Brandt possesses strengths identified through StrengthsFinder themes, including Restorative, Developer, Context, Individualization, and Empathy. These strengths contribute to her effectiveness in her administrative roles, enabling her to understand and address the needs of stakeholders while fostering a collaborative work environment.