What is your current role at Yale University?
I am the Learning & Development Manager for Yale Hospitality, where I design and implement training programs that support professional growth, enhance workplace culture, and drive operational excellence.
What are your main responsibilities?
My role focuses on developing and delivering impactful learning experiences that align with Yale Hospitality’s values and strategic initiatives. I design training programs, facilitate leadership development sessions, and collaborate with subject matter experts across HR, operations, and culinary teams to create content that enhances employee engagement and performance. I also work closely with university partners to advance workplace culture initiatives and support organizational effectiveness.
What do you like most about your work?
I love the balance between creativity and human connection. The ability to design engaging learning experiences and then see their impact through facilitation is incredibly rewarding. I also thrive on collaboration—whether it’s working with different departments, coaching leaders, or contributing to broader Yale learning initiatives, every day presents new opportunities to make a meaningful difference.
How does your job affect your general lifestyle?
Working in Learning & Development keeps me engaged, curious, and continuously learning. It has strengthened my ability to adapt, communicate effectively, and think strategically, skills that extend beyond the workplace and into my daily life. Additionally, because my role involves coaching and helping others grow, I naturally apply that same mindset to my own personal and professional development.
How did you begin your career?
I started my career in Human Resources, where I specialized in employee relations, talent development, and workplace culture. Over time, I discovered my passion for training and learning design, which led me to transition into Learning & Development full-time. Throughout my career—whether in HR, talent management, or L&D—one common thread has been my drive to empower people through knowledge and skill-building.
What steps would you recommend one take to prepare to enter this field?
Understanding adult learning principles is key, as effective training goes beyond delivering information—it’s about engaging learners in meaningful ways. If you’re in HR, operations, or any role that involves developing others, take the initiative to lead a training or knowledge-sharing session—finding ways to build experience regardless of your title or background can be incredibly valuable. Lastly, staying curious and adaptable is essential, as learning trends and technologies are constantly evolving.
What skills, abilities, and personal attributes are essential to success in your job/this field?
Strong communication and facilitation skills are critical, as engaging an audience—whether in person or virtually—requires confidence and clarity. Instructional design expertise is equally important, ensuring training is structured, effective, and aligned with learning objectives. Lastly, collaboration is at the heart of this work, as building relationships with different departments and leaders is key to making learning programs successful.
If you could do it all over again, would you choose the same path for yourself? If not, what would you change?
Absolutely! My career has given me the opportunity to combine my passion for people development with strategic impact. If anything, I would have pursued Learning & Development earlier, knowing how fulfilling this work is. However, my HR background provided valuable experience that makes me a well-rounded learning professional today.