Where did you grow up?
I grew up on the Mississippi Gulf Coast.
Where did you go to school and in what subject did you get your degree(s)?
I have several degrees, all from Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College and the University of Southern Mississippi. They include:
- Associate’s of Arts in Science Education
- Associate’s of Science in Environmental Science
- Associate’s of Science in Business Administration
- Bachelor’s Degree in Library and Information Science with a minor in Business Administration
- Master’s Degree in Library and Information Science
How did you come to work at the Southeast Fisheries Science Center?
My career in Science Librarianship began through the student temporary employee program (STEP) and that evolved into my current position. This student employment opportunity provided me with on-the-job training to manage day-to-day business of the federal government while combining it with my academic studies as an on-the-job experience.
What do you do at the science center?
My daily activities include general library support. I also work on special tasks and assignments. Currently I am working on the NOAA Network Strategic Plan, updating library services based on feedback from a recent staff survey. We will be expanding desktop access to digital resources. These services include interlibrary loan support when documents are not accessible online, bibliographic support, and journal subscription expansion. I am the Freedom of Information Act point of contact for the center as well. I support NOAA’s regional and national education and outreach missions and participate in NOAA’s Fisheries Education Council. I am also a NOAA Library Advisory Committee member representing all NOAA Fisheries libraries.
What do you like most about your position?
I particularly like supporting the OverDrive services available to all staff. OverDrive is a platform that allows staff to find ebooks and audiobooks for related field research as well as leadership; management; diversity and inclusion; remote work; and work/life skills. It is one of my favorites because it allows on-the-go access from the Libby app which is a free download from your app store. It features a 21-day check out period and can even be used on a Kindle device. Doing education and outreach is the most fulfilling part of my job as I share with students, teachers, and others the various aspects of the mission and vision of NOAA Fisheries.
February is Black History Month. What does this month mean to you?
Black History Month for me is a month for reflection. The annual celebration of achievements through African American contribution is meant to be about more than color. It is encouragement for any and all people to work hard with a commitment to make our nation better when possible.
What do you like to do outside of work?
I am in the sandwich generation—blessed with aging parents and three children in high school and college. I am a grandmother of three girls and one little boy. The family roles of aunt, daughter, mom, and grandma never give me a moment of boredom. My home life is filled with love, happiness, and joy. I also have a 6-pound Maltese Yorkie mix named Tankie, who is a boss and keeps me in line.
