The 1828 Project is one of our signature programs at IndyHub and each year it’s full of incredible leaders between the ages of 18 and 28. Brenda is a part of 1828’s Class VIII. We sent her some questions and she responded. Keep reading to learn more about Brenda!
What is your day-job/ how do you spend your days?
I am the Riley Society Gift Officer. I was previously at Riley Children’s Foundation but in a different role. My days are filled meeting with individuals in central Indiana who care to make a difference in the lives of Indiana’s children through financial investments! It’s an honor to connect world-class nurses, doctors, researchers and child life specialist to incredible individuals who are looking to make an impact in anyway they can – both big and small!
Where are you originally from?
I was born in Virginia, but moved to Indiana when I was six months old. So I consider myself a Hoosier!
What made you lay your roots here in Indianapolis?
I have been fortunate enough to travel quite a bit growing up and then on my own in college. One summer during college, I took a two-week, six-city road trip. I remember at our last stop reflecting that with the exception of huge cities like NYC or Chicago, most cities and towns are pretty similar. Indianapolis when you boil it down isn’t too different than Charlotte, NC or Louisville, KY. What matters most are the people. People, their stories, and the opportunities those relationships can present are the real difference makers in creating a full life with purpose. I already had friends, family, and the start of a small network in Indianapolis who were passionate difference-makers and champions for change. Planting my roots after graduating from Indiana University was a no brainier.
They always say things happen for a reason. Pretty soon after I made the decision to commit to Indianapolis in my career search, my mom was diagnose with Stage IV colon cancer. Although, I would have been more than willing to adjust my plans to be present for her care, she never had the “guilt” of feeling like I was changing my life to be available for her. That was not the case at all 🙂 I will be forever grateful to be there for my mom in her final years.
It’s the weekend. What are your plans and/or favorite things to do when not at work?
I like to say I’m an extrovert that understands healthy boundaries. I love exploring new Indianapolis restaurants, bars and cafes! I will usually talk my husband, Tyler, or friends into joining me. With that being said, I love to cook. Of late, my favorite dishes to prepare are Filipino comfort food (an homage to my background). Although, I love spending time with family and friends. I need a little alone time with a book or audiobook. In 2018, I’ve read/listened to 43 books. I also enjoy traveling. I’ll use any excuse to visit dear friends and family in Chicago, Tampa or even Crawfordsville, IN.
When thinking about the future of our city, what are you looking forward to the most and why?
I don’t know how to pick just one – so I’ll pick two that I discussed with friends today. I’m interested in seeing how public transportation expands in the years after the completion of the Red Line project. I believe Indy will see what an essential asset it is for not only those who rely on public transportation, but as a whole we will also understand why it is a draw for attracting young talent to the city and for tourism purposes. Also, I am interested in seeing how IPS changes in the next decade with the expansion and maturity of innovation schools and charter school growing as competitors in the education market.
Quick- you can only eat at one local spot for the rest of your life. Where ya going and what’s your go-to item on the menu?
Siam Square’s Red Curry with Pork (medium).
What’s a local Indy cause that is near and dear to your heart and how might people go about learning more or getting involved?
I’m passionate about access to healthcare for all. There is nothing more defeating than trying to reach your goals, whether they are related to employment, education, financial, etc, but not being able to simply because you are sick or caring for dependent. Or accessing the care one needs but dealing with the financial ramifications afterwards. For me, it is particularly heart-breaking when it is a child who is experiencing health hardship. Indianapolis is fortunate to have a world-renowned pediatric academic hospital, Riley Hospital for Children. In addition to support networks like the Ronald McDonald House (which contrary to common belief, all hospitals can point patient families to RMH, not just Riley).
There are number volunteer, committee and donations one can make to help make an impact for Indiana’s sick kids. I tend to point people to Riley Children’s Foundation or Ronald McDonald House.
It’s 2030: where are you and what are you doing?
By this point, I will be pushing 40. I hope to have children who are healthy and happy. My husband, Tyler, and I would be celebrating 17 years of marriage in our downtown house (maybe Fletcher Place or Old Northside).
I would be in senior leadership leading a development team at a nonprofit focused on health, education, and/or youth. I would also utilize my advancement expertise on a board leading change in a volunteer capacity.
Where’d you go on vacation this year?
This summer my husband and I spent a long weekend in South Haven, Michigan. We stayed at an adorable bed and breakfast. Highlights included hanging out at the beach, checking out the farmer’s market, and dinner on the waterfront. It was the perfect weekend to unplug.
What’s your biggest pet peeve?
I have to know how a story ends. I will listen or read a book all the way through, even if I don’t enjoy it all that much.
