Last fall, I started coaching JV volleyball at Loyola and began working full-time on the Advancement team at DePaul College Prep. I never planned on coaching after my playing days were over, but with the caliber of coaches I would be working with—a few of whom actually coached me in high school—it felt like a great opportunity. I ended up sticking around in the spring for the boys’ season as well.

 

My experience working at DePaul Prep, my master’s program, my experience as a college athlete, and my time at Loyola as a student have all prepared me for this new role.

 

What I’m most excited about in this role is not only connecting alumni with the school, but also connecting them with each other. The Loyola alumni network is so vast, and I’m looking forward to finding the best ways to bring us together.

 

It still sometimes feels strange to be back at Loyola as an adult, but in many ways it feels like coming home. My experience was shaped by the fabulous faculty and staff members I encountered during my time here, and I hope to be able to do the same for the students I interact with today.

 

Some of my favorite memories from my time as a Loyola student include my junior water polo season, when we finished fourth in state; my senior volleyball season, making it to supersectionals and getting to welcome my freshman sister into the volleyball program; AP U.S. History with Mr. Barry; English with Mrs. Whelan; freshman volleyball and PE with Coach Just; Formation with Mr. (Coach) Hara; and water polo with Kim Przekota. These teachers and coaches all had such an impact on my life and are a big part of why my Loyola experience shaped me so deeply.

I still get to see so many of these people—and others—every day at Loyola, which I am incredibly grateful for. Having so many familiar faces around has been really helpful as I’ve settled into this role.

How has your Loyola education influenced your career and personal values?
The philosophy of being a woman for others has been my north star since graduating from high school. It has guided me through many tough situations and has never steered me down the wrong path.

Today, being a Rambler means being called to view every challenge as an opportunity for growth and reflection. As a coach, this often looks like challenging the players I work with to push past their comfort zones and being an adult they can trust and confide in. As Director of Alumni Relations, it’s an invitation to connect with and hear the stories of incredible people I may never have otherwise had the pleasure of meeting.