The Importance of Embracing Who We Are
Heather Gunsallus grew up in rural Pennsylvania. “Even though we didn’t have much, we opened our doors to others. When I was 10, I remember my parents opening their home to a young boy from NYC. He was part of a program where inner-city kids stay with rural families to experience life outside of the city. A young boy, about my age, with a much different background than mine.”
“I didn’t realize until later how that experience changed me. Although we did lose touch with one another, I will never forget him or that experience. Originally, I thought we were polar opposites from different worlds. But I believe that experience developed a deep desire to build diverse teams throughout my professional career. It is why I’m passionate about breaking down barriers in education. At 10, as a rural girl, it gave me a broader view of life that has served me throughout my career.”
Heather was a high-school math teacher and made the transition to the publishing field. She now works in the Education Technology field. “When I left the classroom, I was fortunate to work with incredibly powerful women mentors, leaders and co-founders of successful businesses. The company powerfully supported a balance of career and family, establishing a daycare in the office that enabled me to remain in the workforce once I got pregnant. They trusted me, challenged me, coached me, helped me learn when I stumbled and celebrated my successes. I was allowed to experience the joys and sorrows of building powerful, successful teams. This shaped who I am personally and professionally and have subsequently shaped my now 17-year-old daughter who is also a strong and deeply independent young woman.”
I asked Heather to share the advice she would have offered her younger self. “Embrace who you are and stand confident. Accept praise when offered without allowing any self-talk to diminish the accolades. When a critique is less affirming, own it and learn. Travel, explore, take chances, and trust yourself—you’ve definitely got it!”
Thank you, Heather, for the incredible honor of being a part of capturing your journey.