Joanne Nelson ’84, M’01, M’06 Director for Justice & Mentoring Programs, Mercy Connections
Essex Junction, VT
Job Title & Employer: Director for Justice & Mentoring Programs, Mercy Connections
In a few sentences, tell us about yourself.
I am a native Bostonian from a large Irish-Catholic clan, but I also am a citizen of Vermont, where I grew up and live now. I was raised with 5 siblings and we all worked in the family business together (a restaurant) for 11 years. I have travelled the country and world for my work, and I hope I am not finished. I worked in the hotel and restaurant industry after college; moved to higher education and from 1993-2014, worked in alumni relations, development, and student affairs across three colleges and now work in the small, non-profit world, working with people living on the margins of society (justice-involved women) in Vermont.
Please tell us about your Saint Michael’s experience.
I enjoyed my undergraduate days because I made so many good friends and became engaged in the liberal arts. It fit me because I am curious about every subject and remain that way. My roommate in college married my brother, and I remain good friends with many of my classmates. I also had the opportunity to work at SMC from 1993-2008, first working in alumni relations and development and then students affairs and campus ministry. I was fortunate to also earn additional degrees that strengthened me in meeting the responsibilities of my jobs; a master’s in Education and a master’s in Theology. Talk about appreciating the way SMC provides an educational community! I was very fortunate to get to know, see and articulate the mission of the College through many lenses while on staff and to learn so much from the staff and faculty there. I think I became a better person by being on the staff and consider my time in campus ministry to be the best work I have ever experienced, and I will never forget the students!
What advice would you give to women students?
I’d say to follow your own heart, listen to your own voice, and jump in. Try jobs you think you might like. It doesn’t matter that they don’t work out as a “career” at first, they all teach you something about who you are and what you want. Make friends and form relationships with many people so you can figure out who loves you. Stay focused on what you believe is happiness for you. It’s not like you have to get that all right, the first time. Just keep trying and don’t give up. Don’t let anybody hijack your life.
What are some strategies that can help women achieve a more prominent role in their organizations?
Good work is its own reward so come on time, be prepared and listen. Then repeat. Be good to your colleagues; give them credit and speak up so they can hear what you think. Ask for what you deserve.
What keeps you motivated and driven on a daily basis?
An overwhelming feeling of gratitude for my life. The love I feel for my friends, family and pets! The sense I have of realizing purpose and meaning in my life by the work I do. I am working with the most “invisible” group of women-identified people in the world, incarcerated women, and while I haven’t figured out how to change the system, I am able to make small changes. One person at a time. That motivates me!
What woman most inspires you and why?
Recently, I read a book by Susan Burton, titled, Becoming Ms. Burton: From Prison to Recovery to Leading the Fight for Incarcerated Women. Susan was incarcerated for many years, and when she was released the final time, she just went ahead and started a reentry house for others. She recently opened the ninth house in California. I’d like to do the same in Vermont and would like to learn how to do it from her. She inspires me because despite grave personal tragedy, living in poverty and being a survivor of sexual abuse and assault, she rose up and beyond that to help others. She is a “she-ro” and gives me hope.
**Originally profiled in 2021**