What do you love about the all-girls environment at Immaculate Heart?
I absolutely LOVE the all-girls environment here at IH! The students really are able to focus on being comfortable in their own skin and taking care of themselves. It is also a place where students are not afraid to speak out and are encouraged to voice opinions, develop their own perspectives and then stand up for those views. There is no “cookie cutter” IH student, as every single one brings something special to the community, and they use that to build each other up.
What do you love about Catholic education?
I never saw myself in Catholic education until the day I got a job at my first Catholic school. Now I know I will never leave it! The value that is placed on community-building and the sense of obligation to care for others is instilled in the Catholic school model. Theology is more than a class — it is the basis for how students treat each other, how faculty interact, and the relationships built at the school. When you are in a Catholic school, it is easy for the school to be your second home!
What has been your proudest professional accomplishment?
When I was in the classroom, I remember having a class discussion about a short story when one of my students’ face totally changed — I could literally see him go from confusion to a solid understanding of the lesson. It was awesome.
What is a must-read book that you recommend to all of your students?
Davita’s Harp is an EXCELLENT book. Please read it — don’t be intimidated by the size, because the storyline will pull you in.
What has been your favorite place to travel? Where would you like to travel next?
I have two distinctly different travel experiences. One was a month in India to tear down and rebuild a kitchen at a boys’ home, and the other was driving in the countryside in Italy to enjoy food and culture. Both were incredible. For my next destination, I would love to travel to Fiji!