Community
Although I never actively acknowledged it, I think I have always had a motivation or drive to make an impact on others. Early in my career, I studied early childhood education and even worked in a private school during the first part of my college years. I liked teaching, but knew it wasn’t a long-term career choice for me, so I pursued my Bachelors and Master degrees in the field of business.
During my adult life and early career, I participated in groups where I interacted with young adults. These included Big Brothers, Big Sisters, Junior Achievement, and a private school board. For various reasons, my involvement in these waned as my career progressed. I always thought I would get involved again but wasn’t clear when or with who. I thought I would probably end up getting involved in Big Brothers, Big Sisters again. Yet, instead, I focused on those close to me, friends and colleagues, and supported them as I could.
During the latest decade of my life, I became sensitized to other issues for which I developed an affinity for, and while these were not as related to our younger generation as my earlier endeavors, I knew that my involvement could still make a positive impact.
At the same time, I was exposed to other organizations and was afforded the opportunity to participate in them.
I am excited to share with you how each of the below organizations reflect an area where I have an interest.
Community
Although I never actively acknowledged it, I think I have always had a motivation or drive to make an impact on others. Early in my career, I studied early childhood education and even worked in a private school during the first part of my college years. I liked teaching, but knew it wasn’t a long-term career choice for me. So, I proceeded to earn my Bachelor and Master degrees in the field of business.
During my adult life and early career, I participated in groups where I interacted with young adults. These included Big Brothers, Big Sisters, Junior Achievement, and a private school board. For various reasons, my involvement in these waned as my career progressed. I always thought I would get involved again but wasn’t clear when or with who. I thought I would probably end up getting involved in Big Brothers, Big Sisters again. Yet, instead, I focused on those close to me, friends and colleagues, and supported them as I could.
During the latest decade of my life, I became sensitized to other issues for which I developed an affinity for, and while these were not as related to our younger generation as my earlier endeavors, I knew that my involvement could still make a positive impact.
At the same time, I was exposed to other organizations and was afforded the opportunity to participate in them.
I am excited to share with you how each of the below organizations reflect an area where I have an interest.
Humane Society of Silicon Valley
Board Member; Chair, Audit Committee
Humane Society of Silicon Valley (HSSV):
I became involved many years ago as a donor and advocate, being supportive of their mission, strategy, leadership, and team. I enjoyed the interactions with the team and the organization’s mission and direction resonated with me, so it an easy decision when they approached me about joining their board. It just made sense and felt like a logical progression.I had dogs as pets when I was growing up and re-introduced them into my life almost 15 years ago and am happy to give a homeless animal (or two or three or …) a home.
Rotary International
Member, Rotary Club of San Jose; Co-Chair, Paws for Consideration Committee;
District Treasurer (2019-2020), Rotary District 5170
Rotary Club of San Jose (Rotary):
If I was able to go back in time and tell my younger self that I would be called a Rotarian one day, I wouldn’t have believed myself….
Why would I choose to join an organization that is perceived to be an old boys club and lacks diversity? How could that be much fun? Well, my younger self just didn’t know any better.When a local Rotarian offered to sponsor me, I wasn’t sure what it was really about. After some research and exploration, I found out a friend of mine was one and convinced me that “It is great, you will love it”, and he’s been right.
Through the Rotary, I am given the opportunity to support multiple causes I care about…. animals, children, seniors, and friends. At first glance, seniors may seem like a cause a little out of place. It was helping my mother during the last few years of her life as well as helping my husband with his mother that shed some light on the challenges faced later in life. Finally, as an only child, close friendships are my family, so I strive to prioritize and nurture them as much as possible, so I like the focus on friendship that the Rotary provides.
Financial Executives International – Silicon Valley Chapter
Co-Chair, Communication and Social Media Committee; Member, Partner Committee
Financial Executives International – Silicon Valley Chapter (FEISV):
Obviously, this organization is tied to my profession, which I enjoy. I was a member for a while before I became actively involved in areas which, not surprisingly, provide outlets for learning and growth for our members. My involvement here has given me an outlet to use my creativity around topics and how to deliver them – a throwback to my early childhood education years.
