What inspires you?
Good, ethical, and passionate people inspire me.
I am energized by working with people (within CCNY and our partners and clients) who are creative, compassionate, and smart that give back to the community in meaningful ways. To be invited to partake and contribute to that energy, motivation, and movement towards “good” invigorates me.
Why is CCNY’s mission important to you?
It is essential that social care organizations have the tools they need to do effective, efficient, impactful work. Improvement in people’s lives and community well-being depends on this. CCNY supports organizations in doing their best work which in turn impacts quality of life… that’s important stuff! Helping programs learn what works and then amplifying that can and does have ripple effects in creating positive change for individuals, families, and communities. I want to be a part of that.
Why are you in non-profit work?
My first job out of college was working in corporate America, specifically an American company building cellular infrastructure and capacity in South America. Because this company was not very respectful to the communities in which they were building cellular towers, I learned very quickly the importance (to me) of participating with and supporting the community in which you live, work, and play. I decided to complete my Master’s in Social Work because of this experience.
Tell us about a project with CCNY you are proud of and why.
While not a specific project, I am proud of the culture and environment we have created at CCNY. It has taken time and intentionality to develop, but it is distinct and creates a special place to work. Staff are supported in work and home-life balance and we care about each other, our clients, and the community.
Who is a hero of yours?
I come from a long line of strong, compassionate, socially responsible, family-oriented women that kicked ass and are hero-level of awesome. I love to hear stories of my great-grandma Anna Pies (who I am named after) being the first real social worker in the family. She would drive around town (Batavia, NY) with a trunk full of groceries and blankets and stop for every hitchhiker or lone walker to make sure they had food and a place to sleep that night. She would oftentimes convert the upstairs office of my great-grandfather’s furniture store into a make-shift dorm with all sorts of visitors and new friends.
What do you like to do in your spare time?
My spare time is currently spent taking care of a new puppy and helping my teenage son navigate the world of Zoom and Google classrooms. Other activities I enjoy -especially in the fall- include hiking, apple-picking, and cooking with my daughter.
What’s something quirky about you?
I swear… a lot.
What’s in your coffee?
Old-school cream and sugar.
I will never be seen without…
My phone.