Solenne Hannah Montgomery is a student in the M.S. in Nonprofit Management (NOPM) program at the Columbia University School of Professional Studies (SPS) and a beneficiary of the Yellow Ribbon Program. Established in 2008, the program promotes the reintegration of military veterans into civilian life and offers resources, including educational scholarships, to them and their families.
The daughter of a former U.S. Army Judge Advocate General’s Corps (JAG) officer, Montgomery is using the program’s tuition benefits to cultivate her knowledge in the nonprofit field. Thanks to these resources, she is able to pursue her passion for helping others, particularly within underresourced communities. In a recent interview, we spoke with Montgomery about how the Yellow Ribbon Program is helping her reach her goals of enacting social change.
Could you tell us a bit about your background and what it was like being the child of a veteran?
I spent my early years growing up at Fort McPherson in Atlanta, Georgia, which is now known as Tyler Perry Studios. Some of my fondest memories from that time include visiting my mom’s office, where they had a courtroom. My twin sister and I would play with the gavel while she prepared for her cases. Later, my family moved to Northern Virginia, and Fort Belvoir became my second home. I ran track on the base and was actively involved in extracurricular activities, including Jack and Jill of America.
Growing up as the child of a veteran, I was surrounded by discipline, structure, and a deep sense of service. My mother’s career as an Army JAG officer also taught me firsthand the power of education. Her dedication to the law and her ability to balance her military, legal, and family responsibilities inspired me from a young age.
What brought you to the NOPM program?
Seeing my mother serve as a civil servant instilled in me the value of giving back, which naturally led to my interest in nonprofit management. Throughout my life, I have been passionate about community engagement and advocating for those in need. Whether through my involvement in voter mobilization efforts, civic engagement initiatives, or service-based organizations, I’ve always been drawn to work that creates meaningful impact. This program aligns perfectly with my commitment to social change, equipping me with the skills and knowledge to lead and strengthen nonprofit organizations that serve diverse communities in need.
Can you tell us about your experience with the Yellow Ribbon Program?
The Yellow Ribbon Program has been a transformative part of my educational journey. It has allowed me to pursue higher education debt-free, removing the financial burden of paying for a master’s program. This has lifted a great weight off my shoulders, enabling me to fully focus on my studies and professional growth without the stress of student debt. Because of this program, I have been able to invest my energy into my passion for nonprofit work, community advocacy, and civic engagement. It has truly been a life-changing opportunity, providing me with the freedom to pursue my goals and make a meaningful impact in the communities I serve. I am incredibly grateful for the Yellow Ribbon Program.
How has your time at SPS been so far?
The M.S. in Nonprofit Management program has been academically challenging but incredibly rewarding. I appreciate the rigorous coursework and the opportunity to engage with faculty and peers who are passionate about making a difference. Despite the challenges, I truly enjoy the learning experience and the valuable skills I am gaining for my future career.
What do you hope to work on after finishing your degree?
After completing my degree, I plan to apply to a Ph.D. program to continue my education and further develop my expertise in nonprofit management and public service. Additionally, I aim to begin working in either the government or nonprofit sector, where I can contribute to policies and initiatives that create meaningful change in underresourced communities.
About the M.S. in Nonprofit Management Program
Columbia University’s M.S. in Nonprofit Management program prepares graduates for leadership roles within mission-driven organizations in a wide variety of contexts, including global and community nonprofits, foundations, education, health care, and the arts, or as fundraising and development experts.
The fall 2025 final application deadline for the M.S. in Nonprofit Management program is June 1. Full-time students study on-campus in New York City, and part-time students may study on-campus or online to offer flexibility for working professionals Learn more about the program here.
