Class Year: 2002
Title: Coordinator of Complaints and Special Projects in the Office of Dispute Resolution and Administrative Services
Organization Name: Virginia Department of Education
1. In one sentence, what does your job entail?
I oversee the complaint dispute resolution process as required by the Individuals With Disabilities in Education Act and manage many teacher and school administrator professional development projects related to special education laws and regulations. I really enjoy my job.
2. What planned and unplanned events connected you to your industry and your first employer after Holy Cross? How did you learn/decide it was a good fit for you?
I always knew that I wanted to work in education, but I wasn’t sure in what capacity. I obtained a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology, and my father made me complete the teacher certification program at Holy Cross so that I was an employable upon graduation! Ha! I completed the program to teach social studies but began teaching special education because of my degree in psychology. Teaching special education led me to working in children’s mental health for quite a few years. My experiences encouraged me to pursue a law degree so that I could work in children’s policy. Now I work in special education investigations and compliance.
3. What were you involved in when you were on campus?
I was on the education student advisory committee, colorguard, and BSU. I also wrote a proposal to reignite the semester away program to an HBCU. I attended Hampton University for a semester.
4. What was your major and how did it affect your career decisions?
My degree was in psychology. I think working children’s mental health gave me a whole child approach to reviewing many of the complaints we receive and provides me with a unique perspective when working with other government agencies in providing guidance on policy and policy implementation.
5. What are one or two skills that you developed at Holy Cross that you use in your work?
I think the Holy Cross motto “men and women for others” has led me to understand the importance of public service and giving back.
6. What advice do you have for students on campus today?
College is an opportunity to explore many varied interests. Take classes that peak your curiosity, join many co-curricular activities, study abroad, and get involved in the Worcester community.
