Tell us about a hobby you’re passionate about outside of work.

I belong to a volunteer women’s service organization called Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR). My grandmother, mother, and daughter are also members.

Back in the late 1800s, there was a strong resurgence of patriotism in the United States. Descendants of Revolutionary War soldiers were proud of their ancestry and wanted to recognize that service. DAR was organized in 1890 by women who could trace their lineage to someone who either served in the military or provided aid to the cause. The organization was formed as a service organization with three goals – historic preservation, education, and patriotism.

Many, especially those in Pittsburgh, are familiar with the Fort Pitt Blockhouse. It was built in 1764, and it exists today because DAR ladies in Pittsburgh stood up to the owners of the railroad and prevented them from tearing it down. I’m really proud of that kind of strength of conviction. In the early 20th century, the DAR recognized the lack of educational opportunities for youth in many parts of the rural United States. It was the DAR who built and staffed schools to bring opportunity to otherwise forgotten parts of our country. Service to military and veterans is ongoing.

During the Spanish American War, the DAR organized the DAR Hospital Corps and certified almost 2,000 nurses for service. During WWI, the DAR funded the reconstruction of the water system in the village of Tilloloy, France. During WWII, the use of the DAR buildings in Washington D.C. were given to the American Red Cross. Each year, over 200,000 hours of volunteer work are provided to veterans in VA hospitals and facilities.

Can you tell us about a notable DAR event you attended?

The United States is currently at the eve of our nation’s 250th anniversary. The 250th anniversary of some events that led up to the war have already occurred. We observed the 250th anniversary of the Boston Massacre in March of 2020. On December 16, 2023, I returned to Boston to participate in observing the 250th anniversary of the Boston Tea Party. The event drew thousands of people to Boston and included reenactments of the Sons of Liberty, including portrayals of Sam Adams and Paul Revere. Real tea was thrown into Boston Harbor. This and other events serve as educational opportunities for many who may never have learned about why the Revolution broke out and what events led up to it.

How does this activity bring joy and fulfillment to your life?

I enjoy the opportunity to serve my community, to support educational scholarships and the ROTC, to serve and recognize the service of our veterans, and help preserve places and objects of historical importance.

In what ways has this activity contributed to your personal growth and development?

There are great leadership opportunities in DAR. I have served in leadership positions in my local chapter, I led Pennsylvania DAR from 2019 to 2022, and I currently serve as a National Officer.

Do you see any parallels between your personal interests and your professional life at RETTEW?

I enjoy seeing projects completed by RETTEW that involve preserving historical sites of significance.

What advice would you give to colleagues who may be interested in exploring a similar activity?

In addition to DAR, there are two other organizations: Sons of the American Revolution and Children of the American Revolution. Anyone interested in membership is encouraged to inquire. The websites are great and full of information about how to join.