Program Associates are vital to Urban Initiatives’ mission of empowering Chicago’s youth to become agents of community change through academic success, healthy living, and leadership development. They drive systematic change by connecting stakeholders and strengthening the social fabric of the community. Meet Victoria, one of UI’s newest Program Associates!
Basic info: Name, birthday, where you last went to school
Victoria Rose Parra, November 29th, and currently taking art classes at Harold Washington.
Who is your favorite Spice Girl/Backstreet Boy/Power Ranger?
My favorite Spice Girl was always Sporty Spice, but when we would pretend to be the band in grade school, everyone made me play Posh since her name was Victoria. The resentment was real.
Who is someone that has really inspired you in your lifetime?
Maya Angelou has inspired me to find my voice and become a writer.
If we gave you $20 to go spend on anything right now, what would you buy?
If I was given $20 at this very moment, I would use it to buy an X Sport membership, thanks to Savannah.
What’s your favorite type of cheese and why?
My favorite type of cheese is Chihuahua because, quesadillas.
What is your spirit animal?
My spirit animal is the wolf, I prefer to venture on my own but I always return to the pack eventually.
If you were to throw a dinner party, who are 3 people you’d want to invite?
If I were to throw a dinner party, I would invite Kathleen Hanna from the band Bikini Kill, Maya Angelou, and one of my favorite professors, Rhonda Nicol.
What is the last book you read?
I’m currently reading two books, one is a collection of essays entitled: Listen Up, Voices from the Next Feminist Generation and a comic book: Velvet: Before the Living End.
What’s the best place to get food in Chicago?
One of my favorite places to get food in Chicago is Crisp, their chicken is bomb.
How would your best friend describe you?
My best friend would describe me as comedic and adventurous.
What’s your favorite childhood sports-related memory?
My favorite childhood sports-related memory is being on the volleyball team at Franklin and playing my first game against another school.
What are you most excited about for this year?
I’m excited to meet the students at each of my schools and build relationships with the coaches.
What was your first impression of Jim Dower?
The first time I met Jim Dower he asked if I wanted a high five or a hug, Becca stepped in as a security guard.
Anything else you’d like to share?
I just want to share that I’m incredibly happy to join the team and look forward to what the year has to offer.
