-: The number one way UVA had an impact and influence
on where I am today, is the collection of humans
that I got to learn from and with,
and support in my time here.
I was very fortunate to do a doctorate in higher education,
and to intern in offices across the university grounds,
ultimately landing in an internship
in the president's office, with a leader
that opened the door to me to observe and to practice.
People were generous with me
and it led to me having experiences
earlier in my career than others might,
and to gaining a network, a community of people
that opened my eyes to the variety of opportunities
that there are.
I came to UVA to become a senior administrator
in a university context, and now I lead
thinking about issues that I value
at the core of my soul in a global context.
Different yet remarkably the same, and unexpected,
so I thank UVA.