Accessibility and Inclusion

by Julie Sullivan, Administrative Director

As the Administrative Director here at Mayyim Hayyim, the majority of my job is done behind the scenes. The nature of what I do means that while I do not interact with our guests on a daily basis, their experiences are directly connected to what I do each and every day.

I am responsible for the building and grounds, ordering supplies, and communicating with our maintenance vendors. I also process donations and input all financial data into our database. Another part of my job is to offer support to our Executive Director, Carrie, and interact with our Board Members. No two days are the same and I am often juggling multiple things are once. It’s a little like the image of a duck swimming. What you see above the surface is calm and smooth, while under the surface the duck is paddling with all its might. I hope that all my “paddling” below the surface results in a calm and smooth experience for everyone who walks through the gate here.

Like everyone who is a part of the staff here at Mayyim Hayyim, I want each and every guest and visitor to have a truly wonderful experience. In my position, this means that the kitchen is stocked with tea and coffee and snacks. It means that the lobby that you are welcomed into is neat and tidy. It means that the prep rooms and pool areas are clean and that the temperature is comfortable. It means that the lights are working properly. It means that your donation is processed in a timely manner and that you receive a letter expressing our sincere gratitude for your support. It means that there is a pen ready for you to sign our guest book. If I do my job well, however, you won’t have to think about any of that. All of these details will just melt into the background and be part of the wonderful experience of coming to immerse, taking a tour, or participating in an education program.

Even though the aspects of my job are mostly behind the scenes, I do love the moments when I can welcome a guest with a smile or help someone with a donation or purchase while they are here. Since I have arrived here nearly seven months ago, I have gotten to speak with so many different people about Mayyim Hayyim. One thing I hear over and over is how unique Mayyim Hayyim is. I completely agree. For me, the details are such an important part of what Mayyim Hayyim is all about.

Julie SullivanJulie Sullivan is Mayyim Hayyim’s Administrative Director.