How did you decide to work for the Hurricane Island Outward Bound School?
I came to work at HIOBS in the late 80s when I was asked to work on the Schooner Bowdoin doing HIOBS courses. I had been working on tall ships. Once connected to the school, I worked seasonally (1-8+ months a year) – mostly in logistics for 13 years or so. I left for about 13 years and returned to the Admissions team just over a year and a half ago. I love, love, love supporting courses, students and families!
What is your role at HIOBS ?
I am currently working in Admissions as a course advisor and medical screener.
What do you like best about working for HIOBS?
The community – students, instructors, staff
What is your favorite or funniest HIOBS memory?
In the realm of making the best in challenging situations or inserting fun wherever possible, I remember a 6+ course start in the pouring rain. After issuing gear to the students the instructors arranged a huge football game – orange FWG vs yellow FWG in the field next to the Rockland base. There was a mud puddle about an acre large. The laughter, mess, and team building that happened that day was outstanding. The tone was set for the students to have fun in a challenging and soggy situation. It would have been easy for the them to start course with negative attitudes, damp spirits, and reduced likelihood of buy-in, but, it started with a great time!
Choose one word to sum up HIOBS.
Inspirational
When you are not at work, what do you enjoy doing?
I enjoy reading, kayaking, spending time at the beach, and playing with my dog, Seamus.
What would people be surprised to learn about you?
I’m phobic of snakes and heights.