Mentee Spotlight: Olivia Finkel

Take a minute to get to know WLI mentee, Olivia Finkel, by reading the Q&A below!

Please tell us about your project?

For my project, I revamped the agency night to help it run more smoothly. I gathered information ahead of time about all the agencies participating so that mentees would have knowledge about the agencies and the projects they needed help with. I think this helped mentees to know who they wanted to meet at agency night and an understanding of their projects before meeting them. On the night, we also had set time limits so that everyone had enough time to see all the agencies.

Please share a few of your favorite things you have learned in the class sessions?

I had so many wonderful experiences. I enjoyed getting to know all the wonderful mentors/mentees in my cohort. I especially enjoyed the lesson about the growth mindset. It showed me that if people believe in themselves, they can do great things. The growth mindset also showed me how important it is to do self care for yourself as well as taking care of others.

How have you stayed involved with WLI since your year ended?

I was part of the alumni online cohort during COVID which was wonderful to reconnect with old friends and make new ones. I have also attended some of the alumni events that have been in person.

What is your occupation and have you been able to apply what you learned in WLI to your job?

I have been a consultant dietitian for 20 years. I have used many skills in my profession. Mostly I have used the communication skills and leadership skills in many situations to do with either peers or supervising people at my buildings to help them improve experiences for the residents we serve.

Please tell us more about yourself, your family and/or your involvement in the Jewish community.

My family moved here in 1986. I had my bat mitzvah at Beth El in 1989. During high school, I was very involved in the East Valley JCC and BBYO. I went to ASU and spent a lot of time at Hillel. After college, I married my husband Joel. We have 2 girls (Elana and Sophia). Both girls attended preschool and summer camp at the East Valley JCC for multiple years. The girls had their Bat mitzvah at Temple Beth Shalom of the East Valley, where we were members for 10 years. Recently, we just joined the New Shul to be closer to my parents, who are members.

In your spare time what are some hobbies or activities you like to do? (and/or share some fun facts about yourself)

I enjoy reading, tennis, cooking and traveling. I love spending time with the family (close and extended). Our family enjoys game night where we play board games together. We are quite busy with all the activities the girls do, so any quite time together is nice.