What was your most memorable Rotary service project? Having been a Rotarian for over thirty years, I can think of many memorable service projects. However, the one I want to mention is my first service project back in the 1990’s as a member of the Rotary Club of Alamo Heights.
We manned a community recycling center. It taught me a lot about recycling, I got to know my fellow Rotarians, the community was so appreciative, and I began to embrace the motto of Rotary – Service Above Self.
What part of your cultural heritage are you most proud of? My maternal grandmother lived with us – my parents and older sister - all our growing up. She was born in Paris, France, and was an integral part of our family. She taught us to play the piano, she supported riding lessons for us, and she was a great storyteller. She authored a book about Wyoming and was well travelled. I am sure I got the travel gene from her! I could listen for hours to her life stories as we played canasta. I always admired her “joie de vivre.”
What was the most important professional decision you made? I thought I wanted to be an attorney but by the time I graduated from college, I had changed my mind. I decided to get a graduate degree in College Administration because I had thoroughly enjoyed my college experience. I spent thirty-three years in the administration at UTSA and virtually “grew up” with the University. I retired as Assistant Vice President for Alumni Programs. The students, faculty, staff and alumni are my fondest memories. This was my “joie de vivre!”