Taking Initiative - Danae Jimenez '12

Taking Initiative

Danae on a snowy day
Danae R. Jimenez ’12 was destined to be a Belle. The Defiance, Ohio, native was looking for a college with small classes, a one-on-one connection with professors, and an opportunity to explore her faith. She got it all at Saint Mary’s.

“[The College] has impacted me in a way that I was not expecting,” Danae says. “Saint Mary’s has made me aware of what I truly believe and see as valuable in life.” As a sophomore, Danae has explored her many passions. Following her faith, Danae quickly engrossed herself in Campus Ministry as a lector, Eucharistic Minister, Liturgical dancer, and Peer Minster. 

Danae didn’t stop there. She is taking advantage of many other opportunities at Saint Mary’s. She became a member of the Student Diversity Board (SDB) as a first-year student and is now the vice president. She also attended her first Diverse Students’ Leadership Conference (DSLC). Danae says the conference “brought awareness to issues that aren’t always addressed.” This year she became Chair of the DSLC, which takes place this week.

Danae has been working with a committee of fifteen women to put together the conference. She looks forward to the many workshops planned and the conference’s keynote speaker, Dr. Richard Pimentel, who will discuss disability awareness.

Danae got involved in College diversity initiatives because she believes diversity is important “because no one is ever the same—having the ability to learn about others can enrich a person’s life in the short and long run.”

Being a part of the SDB and DSLC has greatly impacted Danae’s life. She has learned to step out of her comfort zone and become a leader. By pursuing her interests, Danae has not only made great friends, but also discovered where her future lies. She is working toward a double major in speech communications and theatre with a minor in women’s studies. After graduation, Danae plans on working for a theatre company.

Though she stays busy with classes, homework, and clubs, Danae keeps in close contact with her family. They have inspired her to work hard and continue reaching for her dreams. As one of the few members of her family to attend college, Danae works hard and takes advantage of the many opportunities Saint Mary’s has to offer.

“My favorite aspect of Saint Mary’s is being able to get to know your professors and forming tight bonds with the girls that you meet,” she says. “I have made some really great friendships—they make Saint Mary’s feel very comfortable and like home.”

—Sarah Sheppard '11