VERY Proud Member of the Development Leadership (DLI) Class of 2013

For the past three weeks I've been attending orientation for USAID. It has been such an enticing introduction to the agency and all the wonderful things it is doing for so many around the world. I don't think I've ever been more proud to be a part of something in my life! Speaking of proud, my classmates are some of the sharpest, most interesting and uniquely special individuals I've ever met in my life. I feel truly blessed to be among them and learn so much from them each day. Yes, I often have to pinch myself to make sure this is real (often it's as I salute Arlington Cemetery and pass the Pentagon on my morning commute because I never in my life expected to be working here in D.C. and it's so surreal), but it is and I am so thankful and beyond proud to call myself a member of the DLI Class of 2013 and can't wait to get started helping this astounding agency of the U.S. government in its mission of sustainable development throughout the world.

Get a load of our class profile . . .

11 women, 28 men

21 languages spoken

69 different countries previously served

3 JDs, 3 PHds, 3 CPAs, 2 Fulbright Scholars, 1 Italian Policeman, a bronze star medal recipient, an award winning salsa dancer, a reporter and more.

4 from Private Sector, 12 Peace Corp Volunteers/Staff, 4 Independent Consultants, 12 USAID contractors, 9 Other Federal Government, 2 University Professors and 2 Military

Above all, this group of individuals is genuine, authentic and willing to sacrifice their own safety and comforts to help others in sustaining life's basic needs. There are no egos, all of these folks are truly not in this career for themselves, but to help others - again I have to pinch myself it seems so unreal! These character traits encompass some truly special people that I am honored to have met and look forward to working with them in such an impactful mission!

"It's not about you." Rick Warren, A Purpose Driven Life