Role with The Lion’s Pantry: Communications Coordinator (2018-2022)
Academic Area of Study: Undergraduate – Health Policy and Administration, Masters Program – Public Health
Post-Graduation Plans: Health Policy Associate in Alexandria, VA
What was your favorite part of working with The Lion’s Pantry?
My favorite part of working with The Lion’s Pantry was finding new ways to reach students, through student org and faculty partnerships, to just simply talking about the Pantry. I often said that every student should know about The Lion’s Pantry – whether they or a friend needed the services today, tomorrow, or next year; in a challenging time they could feel supported by services offered by their peers through The Lion’s Pantry. I’m proud of the ways our team has continued to make the Pantry name part of all of our conversations.
How did The Lion’s Pantry shape your Penn State experience?
Learning of The Lion’s Pantry, and the need that our community had for it, made me realize that the real college experience looks much different than what is often portrayed. I honestly wish that there was not a need for The Lion’s Pantry – that students didn’t need to choose between books and their next few meals, between rent and stocking their shelves, but until no student is in need, I’ve realized that the Pantry will be here, and that was an indescribably powerful part of my Penn State experience.
What’s something you learned from your work with the Pantry that you’ll take with you into your future?
The Pantry has taught me how much food insecurity impacts an individual’s life. When students are food secure and know that The Lion’s Pantry is there to support them, they can continue to operate as a student – to learn better, to live better, and to be an active member of the Penn State community. This message is one I’ll never stop sharing because it highlights just how critical these services are.
What advice would you give to incoming students interested in joining the pantry?
I would encourage absolutely every student to find a way to get engaged with The Lion’s Pantry. Whether this means encouraging your other organizations to host a food drive, to attend a workday, or to be a Lion’s Pantry Ambassador, your contribution will be immense.
