What is the most rewarding thing about working in public/social service?
The most rewarding experiences resulting from my work as an educator is seeing our children, no matter what their obstacles in life, grow and develop academically, socially, and creatively to develop to their full potentials. There is no experience more moving than witnessing the joy a child feels when s/he realizes his or her own success.
Was there a particular experience in your life that prepared you for leadership?
I was very lucky to have as an example and mentor an amazingly innovative and thoughtful principal who was able to bring teachers and community with diverse perspectives and ideas together to collaborate in the best interests of all students in the school. She had an ability to identify and build upon the strengths of her teachers, and developed the capacity in her teachers to sustain educational change and progress.
What are the key things you would counsel someone coming into the workforce?
In counseling someone considering entering the world of teaching, I would ask them to be certain that they truly believed that every student has strengths and talents, and that every child has the right and potential to achieve at high levels both academically and socially.
How long have you lived in Austin? What brought you here?
I've lived in Austin for 27 years, and first came to Austin to attend UT. After moving to New York for several years, I returned to Austin with my husband to pursue new careers and start a family.
What's the thing that you wished you studies in school, but didn't?
I sometimes wish I'd had the chance to study architecture and philosophy.
