I Am West Georgia

Name: Deirdre Haywood-Rouse

Job title: Program Coordinator at the Office of Institutional Diversity.

What I really do: Learn on a daily basis from all at UWG!

Years at UWG: Employed since 1998.

Before UWG, I: Worked in the area of social services with individuals our society usually considered outcast: persons living with HIV/AIDS, homeless women, abused women, those who are chronically mentally ill and senior citizens.

I came to UWG because: I had the opportunity to teach a subject I love: gerontology!

I was born in: Raleigh, NC.

Family members are: Charlie, Chaturia and Camaray.

People describe me as: Friendly.

Most colleagues don’t know that: I love cartoons with a message, like Avatar: The Last Airbender.

Favorite things to do: Spend time with my family, read, listen to music, dance, fish, photography, volunteer, sports (especially basketball and track and field) and partake in delicious food.

Favorite quote: When spider webs unite they can tie up a lion (Ethiopian proverb).

Proudest accomplishment so far: Having a family and continuing to strive to raise kids with my husband who contribute positively to society and not be a menace to the community.

Pet peeve: Some individuals' unwillingness to forgive.

Best advice ever received: “Always put God first and say thank you. People don’t have to do what they do for you." -- My grandmother.

Best advice for new faculty and staff: Don’t be afraid to introduce yourself to others outside your department since we all are working together in some capacity at UWG.

What I most want to contribute to students: To always have zeal for learning and to be willing to help others.

The book everyone should read: Their Eyes were Watching God.

The movie everyone should watch: "Do You Remember Love," "Road to Galveston" and “Cars.”

The person dead or alive I’d most like to meet: Ida B. Wells.

The place I’d love to travel to: Australia and Africa.

Although you didn’t ask, I’d like to tell you anyway: I love listening and learning from seasoned citizens. They have so much to offer if we only take a moment. Intergenerational contact is essential!