Repost: Meet the HABIT Team: Jeanne Eilertsen

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Aug 3, 2021 | Dr. Melanie Chandler, HABIT FL Director | @drmelaniechandler | Comments (1)

We've been getting a lot of help here in Florida lately from a special team member in Arizona: Jeanne Eilertsen.  Now our longest serving HABIT coordinator, she has invaluable "historic" memory of the Program's logistics and coordination pieces.  Thanks Jeanne for all you do!  Here is some Q & A with Jeanne from a couple years' back.

1. When you were a kid, what did you want to be when you grew up?

When I was a teenager I had some serious health issues and decided I wanted to be a nurse.  Unfortunately I did not do a good job in preparing for college so my first semester taking Chemistry, I dropped that class the day of the first test.  Then I decided to go into Home Economics and that didn't turn out like I thought it would.  I then focused on business classes which is what I did in High School.  I eventually got my BBA from University of Texas.

1. What is your favorite thing about the HABIT Program?

My favorite thing about the HABIT program - is how it gives those involved Hope and can change the way they look at things.  It is fun to see the changes it can make in people's lives and to know I was a part of that process.

1. How did you get involved as part of the HABIT Team?

I got involved in the HABIT program in Arizona after Dr. Locke asked if I was interested in doing it with her.  It sounded like a good project and we have been working together ever since.  It's always a new challenge but a fulfilling one.

1. What is your favorite thing about living in Arizona? Where else have you lived?

My favorite thing about living in Arizona is the beautiful winters even though they are shorter than I'd like.  I have always lived in the Southwest.  Born in New Mexico, moved to Texas, then college in Utah and Hawaii, back to Texas then to Colorado and finally in Arizona.

1. I know that you love going to the Grand Canyon. How would you describe it to someone who had never been there?

Yes, I love going to the Grand Canyon which I have been doing every year since 2009.  I go in November when it's not so crowded and a bit cooler.  If you haven't been, it's hard to describe except to say, Yes - it is a huge hole - but I think of it as a majestic opening which can be awe inspiring.  It makes me feel closer to God and can be very soothing.  I usually spend three days there and just walk around, hike a bit and just relax.

1. What motivates you?

I like to be involved in projects where I can see the end results.  I like solving problems and putting things in order to help them run smoothly.  Whether it be at work or at home, once something is done and I catch my breath, I can sit back and smile and say that was worth it.