Next Up Columbus 2025: Jordan Gomes

Name: Jordan Gomes
Age: 31
Profession: Development Manager at Flying Horse Farms
Neighborhood: Italian Village
Education: B.A. Communication, M.A. Higher Education Administration
Community Involvement: Columbus Young Professionals Club – leadership council; CYP Club Cares – board; Flying Horse Farms – full-time job, volunteer
Motto: Be Where Your Feet Are
Connect on LinkedIn

Jordan Gomes is a first-generation college graduate, equity advocate, and connector whose personal journey fuels his professional purpose. Raised in Massachusetts as the oldest of six siblings in a single-parent household, Jordan has always been motivated to create generational opportunities for his family and for future changemakers.

Nearly a decade ago, he relocated to Columbus to pursue a graduate degree in higher education administration at The Ohio State University. That experience not only sparked a deep love for the city but also solidified his commitment to equity in education. His career began on campus, where he managed residence halls and later advanced into major gift fundraising and scholarship support. Jordan then took his talents into the private sector, joining a digital media company where he led market expansion efforts — including asset acquisition, lease negotiations, and zoning policy. While the work challenged him, he soon realized that true fulfillment came from mission-driven impact.

Today, Jordan serves as the leader of corporate and strategic partnerships for Flying Horse Farms, a nonprofit medical specialty camp, aligning business objectives with a powerful cause: helping children with serious illnesses experience the joy and freedom of summer camp. His work bridges purpose and partnership, and is rooted in a lifelong commitment to building brighter futures.

What gets you up in the morning? And what gets you through the workweek?
Most mornings, one of our three cats makes sure I’m up by 5:00 am, but what truly gets me going is the anticipation of who I’ll meet and what I’ll learn that day. The chance to make progress, even in small ways, keeps me grounded through the workweek. I find energy in new connections, thoughtful conversations, and witnessing people show up as their fullest, most authentic selves. Even on the toughest days/weeks, that’s what keeps me going.

What advice or mentors have helped guide you along the way?
Family has always been my foundation. I wouldn’t have had the courage to move to Columbus, knowing no one, without the encouragement of my mom and grandparents. While formal education wasn’t part of our household, I grew up surrounded by care, love, and resilience. Those values have shaped every part of my journey and continue to guide me today.

Professionally, I’ve been incredibly fortunate to have mentors and champions at every stage. From residence colleagues to fundraising peers at Ohio State to colleagues-turned-friends at Orange Barrel Media, so many people saw something in me, helped sharpen my skills, and pushed me to bet on myself.

If I’ve learned anything, it’s this: you are your strongest advocate – and the people who believe in you will help you realize that power

What do you do or where do you go to unwind?
I live to be outdoors. My skin and soul crave the sun, and I find deep comfort in nature – whether it’s touching grass, birdwatching, or simply listening to the sounds of the river. I feel most at ease when I’m connected to the world around me, especially in contrast to the constant noise and overstimulation of daily life.

When not outside, I’m usually with my friends, partner, or our cats – exploring new coffee shops, brunch spots, and soaking in all the beauty and experiences that Columbus has to offer.

What are a few of your favorite local spots in Columbus?
It’s hard to pick favorites without leaving somewhere out – but you’ll usually find me at a coffee shop. Bada Bean in Italian Village, Stauf’s in Victorian Village, and Fox in the Snow (that egg sandwich is unmatched) are my go-tos. You really can’t go wrong.

When I have a weekend to myself, I love walking through the Short North and Downtown, making time for a stop in German Village (hey, Book Loft!) or a visit to the Franklin Park Conservatory. In the summer, I’m easily drawn to the Scioto Mile – it’s the perfect place for a run while taking in the skyline and remembering why I love this city.

When you were a kid, what did you say you wanted to be when you grew up?
My mom loves to remind me that I was set on becoming a lawyer. Probably because I loved building an argument and telling a compelling story. That ambition faded over time, mostly because I didn’t often see myself reflected in traditional professional roles… and for a while, I wasn’t sure where I fit.

Even now, I’m still evolving my answer to ‘what I want to be when I grow up’. What I do know is that my path will involve supporting others and shaping vibrant, healthy communities. It’s taken time to realize that what matters most isn’t the job title – it’s how you show up, how you make people feel, and the opportunities you create along the way.

What books or podcasts are you reading/listening to right now?
I’m an NPR fanatic. My mornings start with Up First, NPR Politics, and Planet Money to keep my brain tuned into what’s happening around the world. I also rotate in Pod Save America, The Daily, and Short History Of… for a broader mix of politics, global stories, and historical context.

For something lighter, I’ve been loving Good Hang with Amy Poehler and Ologies with Alie Ward – both are great for the heart, the laughs, and keeping my curiosity alive.

As for books, I wish I were more consistent! I’ve been slowly making my way through Desert Solitaire by Edward Abbey, inspired by a recent trip through Utah’s Mighty 5 National Parks. It’s taking me a while – but I’ve come to appreciate the slower pace when a book invites me to pause, reflect, and revisit the beauty of what I’ve seen.

What does it mean to you to be chosen for the Next Up Columbus award?
Truly an unexpected honor. It’s really easy to feel impostor syndrome and wonder, “Why me?” or “Who else deserves this?” But I accept this recognition with both humility and pride. Columbus has become my home, and it’s incredibly exciting to be counted among a group of inspiring young professionals shaping the future of our city.

If someone were to ask you what the “pulse” of Columbus is, what would you tell them?
You are on the ground floor of something really special that is being built here in Columbus. The growth and development I’ve witnessed in just the past decade is remarkable. People outside of Columbus may not fully realize it yet, but the “pulse” here is strong and growing stronger every day. Our city is building something meaningful – one that welcomes new innovations, celebrates diversity, and is poised to become a model for what a thriving, vibrant urban center can be.

The Next Up Columbus Awards, presented annually by the Columbus Young Professionals Club, recognize emerging leaders who are making a meaningful impact across Central Ohio. These honorees are innovators, connectors, and community champions helping to shape a brighter future for Columbus. Meet the entire Class of 2025 »