loading
“I grew up in a small town on the east side of Indiana as one of six children. Growing up with my family was loud, chaotic, loving, and overall, just amazing. My parents are the two people that I look up to most in my life. They have always encouraged me to be myself, and to go for the things I wanted.
When I was younger, I didn’t know many people who were “out,” so I didn’t make it known myself. I was always a shy and quiet kid (when I was in public). I had very few friends, but those friends were the best I could have asked for. When I was 19, I decided that it was time for me to be ME. I began by telling my best friend that I was gay. She wrapped her arms around me, said “I know” and made me feel as loved as I have ever felt. It was because of this reaction that I felt comfortable to begin sharing my true self with the rest of the world, and I have never looked back! Through a mutual friend in 2012, I met Zachary, who would eventually become my husband. He moved to Indianapolis shortly after I did and needed a place to stay – he never left. We have been married for 5 years and have a Boston Terrier and Bull Mastiff. I have truly never been happier.
I began with Chartwells just shy of 4 years ago as an HR administrative assistant. I soon realized my passion for dining operations and with the support of my manager, transitioned into a retail supervisor role. After a year and a half, I was promoted to assistant director and managed the Chick-fil-A on campus. Since then, I have been supporting the team at Anderson University and was recently promoted to Director of Residential Dining and Meal Plans. I have been in this role for just over two months and am excited to see where my career takes me next.
I try to celebrate Pride every day, not just during the month of June. To be your most authentic self, and to never have to hide who you are is what Pride is all about. Pride is a way for our community to let others, who may not be as fortunate, know that they have a supporting family and are not alone. More people are coming out and being their most authentic self and that is the most beautiful thing in the world.”
June is Pride Month, and we are honored to offer our platforms to our team members as they share their journeys in their own unique voices.
#pridemonth #loveislove
Pride to me means more than just a month or a parade. To me, it’s more about really feeling proud and letting others see that you are proud. Knowing it’s okay to be your true self regardless of what others may think or feel. To anyone who is wanting to live their truth, I say do it and don’t be scared to be you. It will be ten times better being your true self.
read more
On Veteran’s Day, we recognize and thank our veterans for their steadfast dedication and service.
read more
May is Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month, a time to celebrate the rich and diverse cultures, traditions, and histories as well as acknowledge the important contributions of our Asian American communities.
read more