Where are you from? What were you doing before St. James? How did you find us?
I grew up here in Allegheny West close to St. James School; my dad still lives in the house I grew up in. I recall attending community events at the original parish of St. James the Less. After college, I lived in New York City and worked as a fitness instructor for 8 years. When I returned to Philadelphia, Miss Nelson, a St. James neighbor and volunteer, encouraged me to volunteer at The Welcome Table’s Saturday Farmer’s Market. In addition, I met Musa Macenyane from the Adult Education Program, where I taught a Body Positivity class. When The Welcome Table listed a new position of Food Sharing Coordinator, I eagerly interviewed and was offered the job.
What is your role as Food Sharing Coordinator?
Basically, I am the face of our Food Sharing Community Action. I'm in charge of everything related to our Saturday Farmer’s Market, our Tuesday Student Market, and our bi-weekly market at One Bright Ray in Strawberry Mansion. Every week I coordinate with our food donors to ensure all donations are picked up. I also make sure we purchase enough protein and other items to supplement the donations. Each week I review attendance, trends, and needs going forward. We are always listening to our community members to make sure that we are providing what is needed.
What’s your favorite thing about St. James so far?
St. James is a one stop shop for our community. With the school, The Welcome Table, and the Church of St. James the Less, we have it all!
When you’re not on campus, what do you enjoy doing?
I love teaching dance and fitness. I also enjoy being active outside. Quiet and stillness are very important to me; mornings are my time to embrace those elements of the day.
What’s a fun fact about yourself?
I once worked as an intern on the Emeril Lagasse cooking show.
