Griselda (she/ella) is: the proud mother of a big-hearted teenager, daughter of immigrants from México, sister to three younger siblings, friend, true crime junkie, rookie plant parent, and easily distracted by cool dwellings. Griselda is the Senior Manager of Operations at DFI, and her experience includes roles as: a project coordinator for a central Texas school district, a adminitrative assistant for alternative schools, and accouting at a catholic church. Griselda volunteers by advocating for LGBTQ+ students to help create safe, supportive and inclusive environments and helps ensure that all Central Texans have equitable and unrestricted access to reproductive healthcare.
What do you enjoy most about working at DFI?
The people that make up DFI. We care about each other and those we work with, we create inclusive spaces to show up authentically, and foster continuous learning. I thrive because I am valued for my identity, contributions and lived experiences. Our be good stewards core value acknowledges that work is just a facet of life, and this is true every day for us. We embrace and prioritize our extended family. I am DFI.
Describe a teacher or student who made a lasting impact in your life.
After coming to the US in 1995, I was in ESL classes and one teacher that I had in 5th grade was Ms. Victoria. She encouraged us to embrace our full identity and language. As a newcomer, I was not trying to learn the language or fit in, instead I wanted to go back to México where I belonged. Ms. Victoria was more than an ESL teacher, she believed in our success and advocated for us to take up space without losing our identity and language. Because of her I am proud to speak Spanish, my mother tongue, and not ashamed to be the daughter of immigrants.
What's a principle, philosophy, or quote you live by, and why?
Aut viam inveniam aut faciam - Latin for I shall either find a way or make one. It also makes me think of our always seek solutions core value. Being open to new ideas and ways of doing things can streamline our processes and allows us to work smarter, not harder.
What do you enjoy doing outside of work?
All of the plants! There's a lot of trial and error, but it's such a joy to see the growth process. My teenager thinks it's weird when I dance, sing, and talk to my plant collection to encourage growth, though.