My name is Rose and I have lived in Eden Prairie for the last 10 years with my husband, Ronald, and two children. We moved here from New York, where I grew up, in 2012 for a job and have never looked back. Despite the tough winter, we love it here. I love to read, travel, play tennis, and downhill ski. I am a social worker and have been working at the PACER Center in Bloomington for the past 8 years. First as an Advocate, supporting families in navigating and understanding the special education system, and now as the Co-Director of the MN Statewide Family Engagement Center. I love helping families to advocate for their children, both children with and without disabilities. I also love socializing with my neighbors and hanging out with my wonderful friends, who I met in Eden Prairie.
Q: Please tell us a little bit about your family. Do you have any pets?
I am married, with two children, ages 15 and 17. We have a mini-schnauzer named Milo, who is 5 years old, the most rambunctious member of our family.
Q: How long have you lived or worked in Eden Prairie?
Lived in Eden Prairie for 10 years.
Q: What inspired you, or led you to your current career/endeavor? What do you love the most about what you do?
I have always been a “helper” and tried to understand the situation of others. Social work was a natural career for me and something I wanted to do since high school. I love educating and providing information to others that allows them to advocate for their needs. I am passionate about making sure all people have access to the same opportunities so they can reach their potential.
Q: What are some of you favorite restaurants in Eden Prairie?
Naf Naf is my go to for a quick meal.
Q: What is you favorite season? Favorite holiday?
Summer is my favorite. Fall my second favorite. My favorite holiday is Thanksgiving because I love gathering with family and friends for a meal. I also love the Jewish holiday of Passover, which happens close to Easter, and is when we gather with family and friends to retell the story of the Exodus from Egypt and celebrate our freedom.
Q: If you could travel anywhere in the world, where would you go, and why?
South Africa. I have always wanted to visit. It seems to have a wide variety of things to see and do. I also had a friend in graduate school who was from there and I loved everything he showed me about his country.
Q: What is a current or former business that makes you the most nostalgic about Eden Prairie?
Santorini Greek Restaurant.
Q: What is something on your bucket list?
I really want to go to a tennis camp/clinic. It’s in the works!
Q: Who or what inspires you to be a better person?
The deeds of others. When I see what self-less acts people do for others, that inspires me to do the same.
Q: What is something unique or interesting that most people don’t know about you?
I’ve lived in several countries. Switzerland, Spain and Venezuela, where my husband is from.
Q: What is your favorite movie or TV show?
Mad Men for TV show and Forest Gump for movie.
Q: What advice do you like to share with other people?
“This too shall pass.” Things do get better overtime. Don’t give up.
Q: Where do you see yourself in 5 or 10 years?
Hmmm….probably still working in the field of human services. Maybe living downtown or an apartment where I can walk to lots of things.
Q: If you could have lunch with someone alive or not, who would you choose, and why?
Nelson Mandela. I want to know more about how people overcome and survive extreme circumstance and adversity.
Q: What is the most beautiful place you have ever been?
Bora Bora.
Q: What are your favorite hobbies or activities that you enjoy?
Tennis, reading, skiing, taking walks, and traveling.
Q: Are there any books that you are currently reading, or would recommend to a friend?
Lots. Poisonwood Bible is a favorite.
Q: If you could have a super power, what would it be?
Read super fast. Is that a superpower?
Q: What accomplishment are you the most proud of in your life?
Having lived in several countries and learned to speak Spanish fluently and some French.
Q: Finally, what are 3 words or phrases that come to mind when you think of the word HOME?
Family, peace, and love.