Gracie double-majors in English Literature and Ancient Studies and will be a “proud member of the class of 2023.” She became a Student Health Ambassador in the fall of 2020, prompted by a belief in the seriousness of the pandemic and the need to ensure good health practices in the campus community. Gracie took special note of the atmosphere on campus with online classes and minimal chances to interact and found comfort in working in a position that called for reaching out and making connections with people: “I am not only promoting safe and necessary health precautions, but had the opportunity to see people on campus and engage in small, safe interactions.” That activity provided Gracie with a sense of community at a time when that feeling was hard to come by.
Gracie is a member of Alpha Phi Omega which also offers opportunities to connect with others particularly those who prioritize service such as working at a local animal shelter. While the pandemic has curtailed such in-person public service, she’s had a chance to catch up on her reading and never fails to enjoy “an afternoon immersed in books.” Gracie’s post-graduation plans are not yet set but she feels certain that helping others will be part of her life ongoing, perhaps with a non-profit organization and possibly with some world travel for good measure.