What grades did you attend Bullis? What year did you graduate?
7th-12th grades, Class of '94
Where did you attend college and what is your occupation?
George Washington University - Currently Founder and President of POPSUGAR
What activities or classes were most memorable for you as you reflect on your time at Bullis?
Soccer! All sports but I really loved soccer at Bullis. It's also sadly when I tore my ACL. I loved playing for various teams and supporting other athletes. Homecoming weekend and events were always a blast as well.
Also winning the Manuel Jose Baca Joy of Living Award my freshman year was a huge surprise and I still have the award proudly showcased in my house now. It's a reminder that one's positive attitude can illuminate and truly affect others.
For classes - English with Doug London, History with Ross Clark, Ms. Manos for being such a wonderful friend and advisor, and the continued support and encouragement from Mr. Bill White
How did Bullis best prepare you for college and beyond?
I learned excellent study skills, organization, and time management. I also learned to fail and overcome disappointment which was critical to my growth.
Please tell us about what you have been doing since graduating from Bullis.
I stayed super close for college by going to school in DC. I enjoyed those extra years close to home but was very ready to leave once I graduated college in '98. I immediately headed to NYC and then a few years later went to San Francisco. I worked in advertising at the beginning of my career but my love of entertainment and pop culture led me to start POPSUGAR in 2005.
Which part of your journey has been most rewarding?
Building something from scratch with my husband and meeting so many wonderful teammates along the way.
What would you say to Bullis students who are currently on their journey to finding purpose?
Figure out what you love to do in your spare time and learn about industries surrounding those interests.
Who is someone that inspires you and how?
Beyonce for her drive and continued success doing what she loves. Yara Shahidi for her wisdom at such a young age. Megan Rapinoe for her talent and skills at her sport but also her courage and desire to keep fighting for equal pay and rights.
What is the best book or production that you have read, watched, or listened to lately?
Still Processing Podcast; Smartless Podcast; Maybe You Should Talk to Someone by Lori Gottlieb; Bo Burnham Inside; Olivia Rodrigo’s album Sour, Daisy Jones and the Six by Taylor Jenkins Reid
What global challenge would you like to see tackled and how do you see yourself contributing to the positive change that you desire?
So many but starting with social injustice. Using POPSUGAR as a platform to help others on their journey wherever they may be. Making sure we are telling stories from various viewpoints and making all feel welcome. Listening and continued learning.
Why would you tell a prospective family to choose Bullis?
It's been a long time since I was there but I have only the fondest memories of my childhood and loved my years at Bullis. It was a safe space where a teenager could learn from their mistakes and excel elsewhere so they could feel like a superstar at the same time.
- Alumni
- Class of 1994
