Meet PennFuture's Director of Development: M. Travis DiNicola

Many of our favorite memories take place outdoors. For M. Travis DiNicola, the seasons, rain, snow and distinctive light of Pennsylvania frame his best moments. After living elsewhere, he and his wife returned to Pennsylvania to be closer to family because his fondest summer memories were made there.

Growing up in Erie, he spent countless hours exploring Presque Isle—hiking with his grandfather, biking trails, windsurfing on the lake, fishing, canoeing and spending time on the beaches. It was his playground and the place where he discovered a lifelong love of flying stunt kites, which he still enjoys today along the Susquehanna.

DiNicola studied theatre, dance, art and museum education at Penn State and then spent two decades in Indianapolis championing mission-based organizations in the arts, education and community service. He emceed events for environmental groups and even hosted a climate‑change quiz show. Now, as PennFuture’s Director of Development, he brings his passion for Pennsylvania’s environment and his nonprofit advocacy experience to support the organization’s mission.