Genevieve Gonnigan (BA ’19)
What have you been up to since graduating from Loyola?
After graduating from Loyola’s School of Continuing and Professional Studies in 2019, I went on to complete a Master’s in Legal Studies with a Human Resources concentration from Pepperdine University’s Caruso School of Law in Malibu, California. I am now the Vice President of Human Resources, People and Culture at Chicago’s Lincoln Park Zoo.
How do you feel your experience at LUC prepared you for your career or life in general?
I appreciate how justice, learning and faith were centered in my studies at Loyola. I am compelled to seek God in all things and love, service, and stewardship have become my pillars as I navigate the world, both personally and professionally. It is such an honor to be a part of the Rambler community.
What professor or class at Loyola shaped you on a personal or professional level?
All my professors were amazing and so integral to my development. I am especially grateful to Prof. Michael Rydel and his Poetry Writing class. My poem “Wheels Up” that I workshopped during his class, went on to be published in volume 6 of The Transnational Literary Magazine. It was an incredible honor that would not have been possible without Professor Rydel!
What are your fondest memories of Loyola?
My fondest memory was being the recipient of the Loretta M. Schmidt Scholarship and meeting my benefactor, Sister Jean!!! She was so gracious and supportive and her kindness towards me was so humbling and magical. It’s a moment I will cherish for my lifetime.
How have you remained involved with Loyola since graduation?
I love coming to Loyola events to network with my fellow alumni. The annual holiday party is such a treat for my mom and me. I also recently attended my 5-year Golden Hour alumni reception this summer! Time has flown by!
What is your career advice to fellow Ramblers?
My advice to fellow Ramblers is to keep God first, hold close the mission of Loyola in your heart and feel the honor of being of service to others. Stay connected to the Loyola community because there is always a Rambler nearby to help! Also, let the memories of all that you have learned during your time at Loyola continue to be a compass for you, and a reminder to be and give of the highest version of yourself.
What have you been up to since graduating from Loyola?
After graduating from Loyola’s School of Continuing and Professional Studies in 2019, I went on to complete a Master’s in Legal Studies with a Human Resources concentration from Pepperdine University’s Caruso School of Law in Malibu, California. I am now the Vice President of Human Resources, People and Culture at Chicago’s Lincoln Park Zoo.
How do you feel your experience at LUC prepared you for your career or life in general?
I appreciate how justice, learning and faith were centered in my studies at Loyola. I am compelled to seek God in all things and love, service, and stewardship have become my pillars as I navigate the world, both personally and professionally. It is such an honor to be a part of the Rambler community.
What professor or class at Loyola shaped you on a personal or professional level?
All my professors were amazing and so integral to my development. I am especially grateful to Prof. Michael Rydel and his Poetry Writing class. My poem “Wheels Up” that I workshopped during his class, went on to be published in volume 6 of The Transnational Literary Magazine. It was an incredible honor that would not have been possible without Professor Rydel!
What are your fondest memories of Loyola?
My fondest memory was being the recipient of the Loretta M. Schmidt Scholarship and meeting my benefactor, Sister Jean!!! She was so gracious and supportive and her kindness towards me was so humbling and magical. It’s a moment I will cherish for my lifetime.
How have you remained involved with Loyola since graduation?
I love coming to Loyola events to network with my fellow alumni. The annual holiday party is such a treat for my mom and me. I also recently attended my 5-year Golden Hour alumni reception this summer! Time has flown by!
What is your career advice to fellow Ramblers?
My advice to fellow Ramblers is to keep God first, hold close the mission of Loyola in your heart and feel the honor of being of service to others. Stay connected to the Loyola community because there is always a Rambler nearby to help! Also, let the memories of all that you have learned during your time at Loyola continue to be a compass for you, and a reminder to be and give of the highest version of yourself.