Amber Coffman

Marina del Rey, California

Title: Development Director

AT A GLANCE:

Seaver College Class of 2004

BS Physical Education

What does being one of Pepperdine's 40 under 40 honorees mean to you?

It means the world to me. I am honored and blessed to have graduated from Pepperdine, a university whose foundational values stand true in a world that can be so self-consumed.

Describe your success:

I measure success in two ways: 1) What have I contributed to the greater good recently? 2) How have I inspired others to do the same? If I can answer both questions positively on a routine basis, I feel successful.

How does Pepperdine play into your success?

Attending Pepperdine was a GIFT and an extension of the foundation upon which I was raised: Purpose. Service. Leadership. Being influenced in such a way at a pivotal time in my life led me to the life I now have, which embodies those three principles.

Who inspires you and why?

Mother Teresa is a constant in my life. She inspired me to start my own nonprofit at the age of 10 and to live a life of service, seeing the face of God in everyone I serve. Her spirit is alive and well in me.

What's next for you? What's your five year outlook? What's your ten year plan?

Recently engaged, my next five years will involve marriage and the start of my own family while continuing to serve others. 10 year plan—I would like to find a creative way to influence people globally about the importance of service and advocacy, making it attractive and attainable to everyone.

What's your secret sauce?

Laughter. Loads of it!

How do you prepare for a busy day?

Make a list, but first, COFFEE/Red Bull

What is one of your hobbies?

Travel—with the caveat of doing some service along the way.

What is your favorite quote?

Draw a line, live above it.

What profession other than your own would you like to attempt?

Reality TV host of my own show where I travel the world highlighting extraordinary charities and the ways in which we can all get involved.