Q& A

What is the best piece of advice you ever received?

e best advice I’ve ever received came from one of my favorite passages in Ralph Waldo Emerson’s essay, “Self-Reliance.” “Speak what you think today in hard words, and speak what you think tomorrow in hard words again, even if it contradicts everything you said today.” With this knowledge came the ability to change my mind. At various points in my life, I struggled with my varying and sometimes stark perspectives. When a paradigm shift occurs, I frequently refer back to this knowing. It parallels nicely with the biblical wisdom, “When I was a child, I talked like a child, I reasoned like a child. When I became a man, I put the ways of childhood behind me.” Changing my mind represents a signi cant step forward in my development.

What is your favorite place in Newport?

At any time of day, I can drive past First Beach on Memorial Drive. Regardless of what I am about to face on my drive into Salve or what I have experienced after a day’s work, the vastness, beauty, and wonder of the ocean provides a clarifying perspective on the magnitude of my experiences, large or small.

What are some of your favorite self-care activities after a day at work?

Cooking dinners to the sounds of my Bossa Nova playlist, with a hot, cold, or tepid beverage of choice, and while chatting with my husband about our day’s events.

Who is your biggest inspiration?

My children are my greatest inspiration because I am reminded every day that my actions shape their realities. is is the mantra I live by as a mother. I wanted to give them tools to help them navigate the world, and the best tool is a re ective heart—sometimes they fall short of my expectations, and when they do, I give them space to see things di erently. ey don’t always. When they have their “ah ha” moments, however, I feel like I’ve won the lottery—I am simply engulfed with joy. When life throws a curveball at them, I have a plethora of stories to share about how I overcame fear, doubt, and the vicissitudes of life. Often, I remind myself that I am creating realities. I hope that my experiences will inspire or motivate them to persevere when faced with adversity.

What is one movie you could watch over and over?

“ e Greatest Showman.” is lm has it all: a great plot, an outstanding cast, and beautiful music. e messages in this lm are uplifting.

I like how it starts with a dream and shows us the impact of one person seeing possibilities in the midst of what others may see as bleak circumstances. It depicts the consequences of greed, followed by the realization of the signi cance of one’s core beliefs. It is a twohour investment of my time that has yet to be a letdown.

What is your favorite part about working with Salve students?

I enjoy working with students at this stage of their lives. Several of them are grappling with life’s big questions, such as “Who am I?” and “What is my purpose?” I see so much hope, but also so much despair. I enjoy creating a safe and courageous environment for them to explore who they are and the joys and sorrows of their decisions. Over the years, I’ve learned to be grateful for the opportunity to “plant seeds or water them” and witness the blessing of their growth. I am frequently moved by our students’ desire to assist others. It is one of the characteristics that distinguishes Salve.

If you could travel anywhere in the world, where would you go?

India is on my bucket list of places to visit. ere is so much rich history to discover, enriching cultural and spiritual practices to encounter, natural beauty and one of the world’s wonders to see, and a delectable cuisine to taste. I am certain that I will visit there!

What was your dream job when you were a child?

I aspired to be a teacher as well as an international businesswoman. ese childhood ideals are at the heart of what I do today. I enjoy being in an environment where I can share my experiences and learn from those I meet. Di erent cultures, both domestic and global, fascinate me. I enjoy observing how people nd meaning in their lives. I always travel with the intention of sharing and learning. It’s a beautiful way to see the world.

Why is education important to you?

Education is a catalyst for a future full of limitless possibilities; it is a tool that teaches you how to think, and it can teach you that you are not your thoughts or the thoughts of others. It has the potential to teach you how to think about life. When life throws you some curveballs, I ascribe to the practice that you have at least seven ways to respond to the life challenge. Education serves as a conduit for hope. Hope makes life better.

If you could talk to your younger self, what would you say?

Don’t overthink your choices. Simply do it! You will gain a lot of knowledge. At the end of the day (experience), it will be ne either way.

-with Amanda Graves ’23