Get to know Lexie McCarthy, Director of Parent & Family Relations at West Chester University in Pennsylvania. Lexie is a two-time member of the Family Engagement in Higher Education National Conference Team and is this year's Technology Chair.
What is your favorite part of working with parents/families?
I love having the opportunity to support parents and families who are supporting their students. I most enjoy onboarding families each summer at orientation and welcoming families to our Ram Fam.
How did you become involved with AHEPPP or feel free to share any past AHEPPP volunteer roles.
AHEPPP was explicitly listed in my job description, so I was eager to join once I accepted the position. I so enjoyed my first conference in Portland and jumped at the opportunity to join the Conference Committee, present at the conference, receive mentorship, help to plan the Summits, and participate in all of the webinars!
Tell us how you first started working in the field of parent relations.
I started the Office of Parent and Family Relations at West Chester University and currently serve as the department's first Director. I was working in a different role at the university and was encouraged to apply to this role - and I just love it!
What has surprised you most about working with parents and family members?
When I tell people I work with families, people usually groan. They are always surprised that I say I love my job and feel incredibly fulfilled supporting this traditionally troublesome population.
When you're not working with parents and families, how do you like to spend your time?
I am a family person - so I try to spend my spare time with my fam, my husband, and my sweet golden doodle, Casey. I also love yoga, needlepointing, cooking, and a good Netflix binge.
If you had to eat only one meal for the rest of your life, what would it be?
Sushi
Who inspires you? Why?
I am inspired by my mother, who was undoubtedly one of the best college parents ever! She always talked about giving me roots and wings and left every visit to my college with the following saying, "use your head to make good decisions, your heart to form trusted relationships, and your hands to help those in need." Still the greatest advice!