How long have you been in Austin?
Since 2003 when I began attending the University of Texas.
Why did you join the Friends of Barton Springs Pool?
To make a positive contribution to a sacred natural treasure.
What do you do during the day?
I work to help mentally ill defendants find treatment and stay out of jail as a member of Travis County’s first Felony Mental Health Team at the District Attorney’s Office.
What does Barton Springs Pool mean to you?
It represents a spiritual place that my Native American ancestors once enjoyed many years ago.
Favorite local band or artist?
My husband’s band, Hard Proof Afrobeat
Family?
I live on Lake Travis with my husband, Gerardo, Jude (deaf American Bulldog), Bonham and Leu (los gatos)
Favorite moment volunteering for FBSP?
Having every Austin City Council member attend last year’s Council Cleans the Pool Day along with State Rep. Donna Howard and County Commissioner Karen Huber while giving a speech about the true mission behind FBSP.
Any hidden talents?
I live with a musician… I am required to at least play a little guitar. Other than that, I was a collegiate debater.
Describe your first experience at Barton Springs Pool…
My first week in Austin was in the middle of August. I was walking around campus all day long trying to find my classes when I overheard a group of students talking about Barton Springs Pool. The next week, I skipped my first collegiate class to experience the cool, clean waters at Barton Springs Pool. I was convinced that I had found my home.
How long have you been a member of FBSP?
Since September of 2006.
Besides BSP, where is your favorite hangout in Austin?
Draughthouse, Gingerman, Uncle Billy’s, and the Elephant Room
Favorite author?
Henry David Thoreau or Rachel Carson
Favorite quote?
“A human being is a part of a whole, called by us universe, a part limited in time and space. He experiences himself, his thoughts and feelings as something separated from the rest… a kind of optical delusion of his consciousness. This delusion is a kind of prison for us, restricting us to our personal desires and to affection for a few persons nearest to us. Our task must be to free ourselves from this prison by widening our circle of compassion to embrace all living creatures and the whole of nature in its beauty.”
-Albert Einstein
Collegiate days?
I received my B.A. from the University of Texas at Austin in Government
In June, I will begin my Master’s in Public Administration with a certificate in Public Budgeting and Financial Management from the University of Texas at Arlington.
Beer of choice?
The beer Gerardo brews.
Favorite philosopher?
I can’t pick just one. I am really intrigued by Sartre, Nietzsche, Camus, and DeBeauvoir but I studied Indian Philosophy in college.
What is one goal you have for the Communications Committee to achieve in the next year?
To work harder to educate the public about the delicate environment of Barton Springs Pool.