Inspirational Women Series #5 - Deidre Tavera

This month another truly inspiring woman who's passion is deeply rooted in improving peoples' lives as well as communities.  She says she has seen first hand the affect one person can make...

She is currently holding a director position with many responsibilities  and has a loving and supportive family - read below her story, her philosophy and how she juggles it all...

Can you give me a few sentences describing your current job and your prior experience as a non-for-profit consultant?   

I am currently Director of Strategic Planning and Development for Hartford Public Schools where I oversee institutional advancement activities including strategic and program planning, internal communications, district events, as well as, fund development and grants management. Prior to joining Hartford Public Schools, I owned a management consulting firm and, over an 8 year period, worked with over 30 diverse nonprofit organizations facilitating planning and designing implementation recommendations related to board governance, strategy, fundraising, operations, and organizational design.  Perhaps my most formative work experience in the nonprofit sector took place at The Bushnell Center for the Performing Arts where, over a 15 year period, I worked in various areas of the organization including marketing-communications, education, human resources, finance, programming, facility and general operations.

You have worked in non-profit for over 20 years - what drew you to this sector initially and what has kept you there?

My undergraduate degree is in psychology and through both my studies and my community activities during college (e.g. Big Brothers/Big Sisters) I became increasingly interested in the work of non-profit organizations because of the impact they have on people’s lives and the larger community. I just knew that in order to feel fulfilled, my work would need to align with my values and contribute to society in some way.  In addition, my parents both worked in education. My mom was a teacher and my dad an elementary school principal. Their work was very important to them and I saw firsthand that one person can make a significant difference in their communities.   

What do you see as the current opportunities (and/or needs) in your specific not-for-profit sector?

I am so very fortunate to be a part of the exciting school reform work at Hartford Public Schools.
Hartford Public Schools is one of a small group of districts across the country that has undertaken a comprehensive, strategic and bold reform effort to turnaround a poor performing district and significantly improving student achievement. Clearly, there is a major need in our country to focus our attention and resources on education – especially urban education. I believe that this needs to be a national priority not only for our children today but for the future health and success of our country.   

Which have been your most rewarding projects and why?

There are so many…I really like working on team-based projects.  There is nothing better than scoping out a challenge or opportunity to pursue with a group of staff members, colleagues or volunteers. Over a period of days, weeks or months, you can see the team form into a cohesive unit and successfully move the project forward.  In my early career, I served as a project leader on a community-wide fundraising event to raise awareness and support for local AIDS organizations.  Working with a diverse group of arts organizations, artists, community leaders, community based and faith organizations, and several local unions to pull off a major musical and theatrical event was one of the most challenging projects I have ever worked on. On that night when dancers, musicians, and actors came together to celebrate our community and to change perceptions about people with AIDs – it was worth it all!

What resources helped get you where you are now?

I have always been blessed to have wonderful mentors in my life. Most have been women and served both as advisors and friends. As a result, I now mentor young women when I have the opportunity. I think it is very important to help others maneuver through the world. It is incredible how much we learn over the years and this knowledge can be helpful to younger professionals. 

What do you find yourself doing during down time at work?    

I have three children, Kate (19), Evan (15) and Emma (11) – spending time with them and my husband, Frank, is where you’ll find me during off work hours.  I also volunteer and currently serve as Chair of the Women and Girls’ Fund of the Main Street Community Foundation in Bristol, CT and President of the St. Michael’s College Alumni Board.

What is your motto or a philosophy that you live by?

“Whatever it takes…”

How do you balance being a wife, mother and professional?  Any tips?

 
Exercise for stress relief and energy, sleep at least 7 (prefer 8) hours a night and have a supportive spouse/significant other/confidant who can help keep you in balance. Oh, and a good cup of coffee every morning!

Inspirational Women Series #4 - Andrea Ferry

I've had the pleasure of knowing Andrea for some years now.  I met her through my sister who she use to work with.  Andrea is an immediate inspiration to many of us who have known her.  I really enjoy her enthusiastic personality and energy for life.  Andrea is driven and tough yet personable. She was perfect to interview for this series.  After reading a bit about her, you'll see why...

·        You currently work in finance at Lincoln Financial Group – can you tell how us long you’ve been there and a bit about your position?    

I have been working for Lincoln Financial Group for 13 years and have had several positions ranging from customer service to sales to relationship management. My current position involves managing projects for the relationship management team.  My team works with consultants who help plan sponsors (institutions) look for the best fit for their retirement (401k/403b) plan.

·        You also were a national level figure competitor and ranked powerlifter in the past.  Who or what inspired you to participate and compete in this sport?

When I was 26, I met a man (Fairfax Hackley) who worked with Arnold Schawrzenager back in the past and said I had the shape for figure shows and that I should try it out.  He was involved in the Fitness/Figure/Bodybuilding Circuit so he had set me up with a lot of introductions.  Once I started winning regionally, I decided that I wanted to compete at the National Level, which was even more challenging.  That took the competition to a whole new level.

What were your proudest moments during this time?

My proudest moment at a regional was winning first place and overall in the NPC Empire State Kim Klein Fitness/Figure Championship.  The second proudest moment was making the “top 5” selection at the NPC Pittsburgh Show. 

Where there any particular challenges you faced?  

The biggest struggle for any competitor is the constant dedication to dieting and training. Everything that you put in your mouth was weighed, measured and on a schedule (also, there is no drinking alcohol).  The longer I competed, the more critical I was of my body and sometimes that can affect your mindset and confidence.

=

Can you share some of your achievements over the years in this sport?

§  2002 LA Fitness Bencfh Press Champion

§  2003 North American Bodybuilding championships – Womens Shape and Figure – 1^st place

§  2005 GNC Metrx Pharmagenex Worldwide NPCRochester Figure Show – 1st Place

§  2006 NPC National Figure championships – 3^rd place

§  2006 Jim Rockwell/Powerhouse Gym Rochester Bodybulding Fitness and Figure Championships – 1^st place

§  Philadelphia Championship Greenwood Classic – 2^nd Place

§  2007 NPC Pittsburgh 4^th Place

§  2007 NPC Gaspari Nutrition Junior USA 5^th Place

§  WNPC – 1^st place 148 weight class – September 2010

§  WNPF – 1^st place 132 weight class – December 2010 (Deadlift 320 lbs, squat 290 lbs, bench 150 lbs)

·        Wow, that is pretty impressive!  For those of us who barely have enough energy to get off the couch, how did you manage juggling bodybuilding, working at Lincoln Financial and personal training?

        To be honest, it was a lot of work. I would do my cardio from 5:00am to 5:45am, go to work from 8:00am to 5:00pm, go home to train myself (another 45 minutes of lifting and another 45 minutes of cardio) and then train clients afterwards.  Then I would go to bed and start all over again the next day.  I had such a drive to help people be healthy and feel good about themselves.

·         And now you are currently a nutritional consultant.  How did you transition into this?  

            I started learning a lot about nutrition when I studied under my last coach for four years John Sheaffer.  I saw how he was able to transform his client’s bodies and became so intrigued that I started sitting in on all of his client consultations.  Overtime, I was able to take what I learned as a figure competitor, power lifter and trainer and apply it to the average person.  It is amazing; the smallest changes in your nutrition can have a HUGE positive effect.  I saw people struggle with “diets” so I changed the way I spoke about getting in shape and eating better by giving people a nutrition plan and performance goals, versus purely aesthetic goals.  Aesthetic goals are simply a byproduct.  I also do not let my clients get on the scale – we use a measuring tape measure progress by how their clothes fit.   There is so much information in the market that people get overwhelmed – I keep it simple for my clients.

·         How would you describe your personality?

I would describe myself as outgoing, caring and absolutely loving life. I love helping people feel good about their bodies and lighting them up inside... I love to make people smile and laugh.

Who are two closest people to you and why?

The two people closest to me would be my parents (I count them as one!) and my best friend from college Andrea Clidy (yes we have the same name). My Mom and Dad always believe in me and support whatever dream I am focusing on. 

Andrea and I have share a love for fitness and health and are in the process of making that passion a national, and eventually international, business.

         What are your current passions in life?  What motivates you?

Helping people feel good naked motivates me to provide my nutritional advice at a larger scale then it is today. There is nothing better than helping people feel good every day of their lives whether it is through nutrition, physical training or life coaching.  I like to surround myself with positive people who want more in life than to just focus on themselves. I attend inspirational seminars and try to find ways to help people live a more balanced life. Now that I have put my figure and powerlifting days behind me, it is time to give that knowledge to others and serve a greater purpose in life.

An Amazingly Inspirational Woman - Thanks to Andrea and Enjoy your Spirit for Living!

Connecting with Others - In the Spirit for Living!

February brought one can be the most romantic of holidays - Valentine’s Day. Many receive tokens of love in the form of candy, chocolates, roses and for those lucky ones, perhaps a spa treatment…I’m really due for one. But what I always make sure to remind myself and others – it’s as important to give love to others as it is to ‘love you’. Loving yourself means taking a few minutes out of every day to stay in tune with your needs, your wants, your hopes and dreams.


I just moved back into New York City from a long stint in the suburbs. I was drawn to all that the city offers – culture, interesting people, the amazing Central Park. It promised a new and exciting day in what was increasing becoming a mid-thirties life crisis (hopefully this won’t become a decennium habit). So with all this excitement, came trying to find fellow Manhattan’ites who I could eventually call a friend. I’ve moved many times before but each time does not make it any easier. Short of wearing a sign that says ‘befriend me, I’m not weird or crazy’, what can we do to connect with our fellow man/woman?

Connecting with people is so important because staying fit also includes a fit mind. Nutrition, work/life balance and keeping active are all key factors, of course. But for me and most others, I believe connecting with people on various levels is a major piece of the equation.

Past moves have led me to the following strategies to meet new people:

Meetup.com

I actually first heard of this site a few years ago from a childhood friend who had recently become a mother. She found a nice group of other newbie moms in the area to meet up with.

I went on to the site and typed in New York and was pleasantly surprised to see quite a few interesting groups – from the eccentric to traditional mommies and sport groups – there seems to be something for almost everyone. I’d probably lean more to a sport or movie or language where I wouldn’t (or couldn’t) be put on the spot as soon as I joined.

RentAFriend.com

This is a site is one I literally just heard about from a friend of a friend. They are considering a cross country move, where they would be starting fresh. So they mentioned this site as a way they could start meeting and getting introduced to locals.

Upon visiting their site (which I must admit is a bit cheesy) I feel that I’d need some references of those who have tried this successfully….the fact that the images of people look like they’re from college may speak to only certain groups of people.

Professional associations

I like these because I’m achieving two goals – helping to meet new people and also helping with professional development. So if you’re a full time career woman, you can find someone to gab to about how the economy has affected your industry as well as perhaps grab a drink after work with. There are associations for almost every trade – all you have to do is go to a search engine to research.

Take a class at your local community college

This one is always classic – I’ve taken quite a few classes over the years. It’s helped keep my mind fresh, my resume stand out and also extend my network.

Try a free trial at your local gym

Most gyms have a free day trial (some two days or longer). A day at the gym at least makes your body feel good and by chance you can end up talking to the person next to you in the locker room about what they think of being a member. It could end up being a future gym buddy.

If you are spiritual or religious – try a class or study group

Anything from a Bible study class to a meditation or yoga class - people that attend these types of classes are typically a little more open minded and friendly towards newcomers. It can be a way to cleanse your soul as well as find a little companionship.

Community work or volunteering

Lastly, I’ve found if I’m feeling down or lonely, take the focus off me. I’ve found myself doing various volunteering over the years. I’ve done everything from the soup kitchen to reading to children during lunchtime. There are so many great efforts and initiatives out there, helping so many people, it’s just a great way to focus outwards and also to meet some other really great people. (Try http://charitynavigator.org/ to research charities for volunteerism or donation.)



Really, meeting new people is a bit chance and a bit enough bravery to say ‘hello’ to another human being. It is sometimes difficult to overcome the thought of rejection but the few times I’ve dared, I have had at the very least a polite exchange. But I can honestly say that other times; I have met the most interesting people and the closest friends.

Drive your Spirit for Living!

In the Spirit for Living – My 2011 New Year’s Resolutions

As I reflect on 2010, it was a year of new beginnings (moving out of our home after 6 years; replacing our car) and significant growth (more work responsibilities, more travel, and more connections with people). In addition, I’ve been proud to work on Spirit for Living which launched in September 2010 and four months later we closed the year having come out with our first line of organic and natural basics. An added benefit was that we really connected with some great people –great active spirited women that share a common goal of living life to its fullest. I hope to continue this conversation with you in 2011. For those of you who have asked – we’re working on a few new tops and adding some accessories. Very soon! We’ve listened to your comments and feedback from this past fall and we are diligently working to make this a community driven brand of clothing.

This year, I am setting myself to similarly high standards for both personal and professional growth…yes, I’m a bit of a classic overachiever (which brings all kinds of emotional ups and downs). I am in the Spirit for Living and I pledge to live a more healthy life that encompasses not only the physical, but overarching mental and spiritual, elements to personal well being.


Physical. I pledge to challenge my body even further this year – gosh after all these years this is still #1. Physical fitness is not a sprint it is a marathon! I challenge myself every year to physically try something new – or keep up with an old favorite.

I’d like to ski more this winter - In New York, we’ve already had 3 snow storms after lackluster amounts of snowfall the past couple of years. And the most exciting pledge is to take my 3 and ½ year old nephew skiing for the very first time! I think he could be the next ski star!

To hiking more this spring – the East Coast does have some great mountains and trails. My husband is my favorite camping & hiking partner!

To swimming more this summer – This is really more of a challenge. I am definitely not what people would call a great or even a good swimmer… and actually the water has always posed a bit of fear in me. However, I’m thinking of possibly signing up for another triathlon sprint. And that sport dictates a swim….

And to go for jogs more this fall on the East River. I love running and jogging alone – this is when I best can clear my mind…realize my priorities in life.

What are your favorite activities? Do you do them with your friends or family? I always love to hear what other activities people find joy in….

Mental. I pledge to rejuvenate my mind by reading and spending quality time with family this year.

My niece and nephew are my two favorite little people in the world. I want to help them learn and enjoy many different experiences in life. Our family recently took them on their first train ride with Santa. It was no secret that I enjoyed it as much (or probably even more) then they did!

This past year I also took my nephew to the Zoo for the first time - he stared at that alligator - no fear!

I pledge to try to purchase new books on my Kindle (instead of a physical text) in my effort to nourish the earth. I enjoy the relaxation and mental stimulation that reading provides so I promise that I will continue to do more this year. My mother in law just sent me an Agatha Christie book which is next on my list. On my Kindle, my first download will be Bill Bryson – his novels are must reads!


Spiritual. I pledge to nourish my spirit by finding time just for myself. Finding time to be outdoors, enjoy what natural beauty and resources were given to us. And just to clear my mind.

I will reflect on the many positive things around me and within me. I will smile more and laugh more. I will be more in tune with my emotions and actions and gravitate towards all things positive.

So to end, I’d like to add one more resolution:

I pledge to bring greater awareness of Spirit for Living to women across the world in effort to build a strong foundation rooted in personal connectivity and shared consciousness.

I am in the Spirit for Living and I wish you a healthy, happy and active 2011!