Tell us a few things about yourself (family, job, things that bring you joy).
I consider myself bicoastal! I grew up in the Bay Area during the first half of my life and lived in Virginia for the second half. I’m grateful to have lived on both coasts because it pushed my perspective on what diversity truly is. It goes beyond just racial lines and reflects a mix of culture, backgrounds, religions, status, etc. Having this exposure has given me a profound respect and love for people.
What was your journey after leaving UVA?
My journey after leaving UVA hasn’t necessarily looked like most stories. In theory, I never truly left UVA. After graduate school and between coaching transitions, I had the opportunity to keep building our Women’s Basketball program. Looking back, I’m not sure how I survived the transition—I was finishing up grad school courses and learning the ins and outs of my job.
In your opinion, what is the legacy of women on UVA?
The legacy of women at UVA is defined by transformation, determination and will. Women have fundamentally changed this University, a University that has been marked predominantly by men. But women have paved the way and found ways to be barrier breakers. The legacy of women at UVA is marked by courage and boldness. It is marked by empowerment. The legacy of women at UVA is one where boundaries are constantly being redefined and the “norm” is being pushed. It’s a legacy that’s never defined by the standards of a “successful” male or the belief that your time at UVA is the pinnacle of your life. My power comes from my ability to dream and grow into the best person I can be; the best woman I can be.
What does the UVA alumnae community mean to you? How have fellow alumnae affected your life/career/journey? I’m always amazed by how the alumni and UVA communities are always willing to show up for each other. UVA is at the crux of really trying to navigate its past and present. But wherever I go, I find that this University always finds a way to rally around each other.
If you could impart a piece of advice to a female student on Grounds today, what would you tell her?
If you believe you can’t do it, why? I was given this quote this year and have really sought to keep it close to me: “You gain strength, courage, and confidence by every experience in which you really stop to look fear in the face. You are able to say to yourself, ‘I lived through this horror. I can take the next thing that comes along.’” – Eleanor Roosevelt.