People of Pathways

What led you to get involved in the UVA Community Food Pantry?

In my first year at UVA, I took the writing course Writing About Food Justice, taught by Dr. Stephenson. The class combined academic exploration with a community service component, allowing for meaningful independent research on food justice topics. Through my interactions with pantry patrons and my own research, I gained a deeper understanding of the prevalence of food insecurity among college students and its impact on my peers. This experience left a lasting impression on me, and I have remained actively involved at the pantry ever since.

How would you describe your public service journey at UVA?

While I have always been passionate about public service, my time at UVA has deepened that commitment. Each year I’ve worked at the pantry, my dedication has only grown. I started at the pantry in my first year as a volunteer, then in my second year, I played the role of operations director, in my third year, I served as the volunteer coordinator, and in my fourth year, I had the pleasure of serving as the executive director. Each year, I’ve become more engaged, not only in direct service but also in advocating for long-term solutions. Seeing the resilience of the communities I serve has been both humbling and inspiring, reinforcing my dedication to making a meaningful impact.

What is your favorite part about working with the communities you serve?

My favorite part of working with the communities I serve is witnessing their resilience. Food insecurity rarely exists in isolation—many individuals facing it are also dealing with housing instability and other financial challenges. Among college students, food insecurity is linked to adverse mental and physical health effects, lower GPAs, and a 3.5 times higher likelihood of dropping out. Yet, our peers experiencing food insecurity continue to persevere, balancing academics, work, and personal challenges with incredible resilience. The resilience people show every day is truly inspiring.

What advice do you have for those interested in public service?

I would say—just start! If you’re unsure where to get involved, try different opportunities and see what resonates with you. As your public service journey unfolds, your passions will grow, and it’s important to let them guide you. The more effort you invest in service, the more rewarding it becomes, and when you follow what truly inspires you, the experience becomes even more fulfilling.

What spot on Grounds is your favorite?

My favorite spot on the grounds is the lawn, especially when the weather is nice and students are picnicking, reading, and spending time with one another!