THP 30: Sandra (Liz) Barnes

Program: Human Resources Management
Current Position: Program Analyst, Department of Defense
Hometown: Alexandria, VA

"When I think of future human resources leaders in the Department of Defense, I think of Liz. She is passionate about human resources and represents the kind of values for which Georgetown is known. Liz embodies our Jesuit values while integrating the professional specialty needed to be a successful human resources leader. “ - Joshua Meredith, J.D., Faculty

How do you give back?
I currently volunteer as a crisis worker and classroom trainer for PRS CrisisLink, a crisis hotline and textline in Northern Virginia. I am also certified in Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training, certified in Mental Health First Aid, trained in domestic violence, sexual assault, and referral advocacy, and serve as member of the Local Outreach to Suicide Survivors (LOSS) team that provides on-site crisis services to those who have just lost a family member or friend to suicide. I believe that all people have the ability to help themselves and that with problem-solving, active listening, and empathy, those facing life challenges will overcome and be empowered to heal.

What has been your most unique learning experience?
Before entering a graduate program, my career and personal mantra was to have passion, drive, ownership, and communication–if you embodied these four traits, you would be successful. Recognizing the many gains I have made in a short amount of time makes me excited about the knowledge and skills I will learn throughout the rest of this program.