Title: Justice Education Program Manager, Center for Social Concerns
What was your first position at Notre Dame? What is your current role? I started working at Notre Dame in a temporary capacity as an Administrative Assistant with the Summer Service Learning Program (SSLP) in 2016. In 2017, I become the Lead Coordinator for the program and then Justice Education Program Manager in February 2022.
What woman inspires you and why? Many women inspire me. I love the strength, grace, and abilities of women and how when we come together we build villages. But I would have to say that my mother inspires me the most. She is the epiphany of strength. I watched her raise my sister and I as a single mother, all while working hard and never giving up or losing her faith. She always did it with grace, a positive spirit without complaint, with a huge heart, and always declaring hope and good health. She never dwelled on what she didn't have but stayed cheerful and made the most out of everything. She's a wonderful and lovely woman!
What is your favorite book, podcast, or Ted Talk? What did you learn from it and/or how did it inspire you/why would you recommend it? One of my favorite books is "The Gifts of Imperfection" by Brené Brown. I used to struggle with thinking that things had to be perfect before moving forward with something else. Or that I had to be perfect to use my gifts and skills. This book helped me appreciate all of the imperfections and unique qualities of myself and others, and to realize that these imperfections make us who we are and form our stories. We are all fearfully and wonderfully made even with all of our imperfections.
Why do you enjoy working at Notre Dame? What I enjoy most about working at Notre Dame and the CSC is all of the great people and students I've been able to meet and work with during my time here, internally and externally. As well as all of the educational, professional development and networking opportunities that I've taken advantage of. I learn something new every day in the most unexpected moments, and I've learned so much about myself even and have grown tremendously. Once you get in rhythm with the culture and people here. It has a way of becoming threaded into who you are and who you are becoming- a force for good in the world!