Women United Spotlight - Alysa

 

WE ARE WOMEN UNITED.

As an integral part of United Way, Women United® fights for the health, education, and financial stability of every person in every community. We are a diverse, vibrant community, bound together by a powerful sense of belonging — to each other, to the organization’s mission, and to the communities we call home. 

SPOTLIGHT: ALYSA SKILES.

Tell us about yourself.

I moved to Pensacola in March of 2010, at the age of 20, from a small town called Beatrice, Nebraska. In 2017, I graduated from the University of West Florida with a Bachelor’s degree. I bought my own home at the age of 23.  I have 4 dogs and 1 cat. My mother passed away from cancer when I was 8 years old, which has definitely had an impact on my life.  

When and how did you first become involved with United Way? 

I first became involved with United Way in 2017 when I met Kelly Jansen. She came into our office to discuss starting a workplace campaign, and I've been involved ever since then. 

What do you love most about United Way? 

I love that United Way works with many different organizations to make sure that everyone in our community can be touched in some way to help them through any hardship they may be facing.

What is your favorite memory or event with Women United? 

I, unfortunately, have not been with Women United for a long period of time as of yet. However, I very much enjoy touring different facilities and learning about all of the amazing things they do for our community and knowing that I am a small part of that. 

What compelled you to join Women United?

I wanted to meet motivated women who do some truly incredible things in our community, as mentors and women to be admired. 

What is the best advice you can offer to young women and men as they start their careers?

Put 100% into everything you do or don’t do it at all, and make sure you remember to take time and focus on yourself and your needs.  

What accomplishment are you most proud of?  Or What is your greatest achievement and how has it shaped you?  

At the moment, I believe my greatest accomplishments are buying my home at 23 and graduating college. However, I believe that the best is still yet to come. These accomplishments have helped me realize that the world is much bigger than what I experience on a day to day basis. They have also helped me develop an open mind to almost anything!

What aspect of your work are you most passionate about?

I love the challenge of creating new processes and efficiencies and watching them take place, and creating a more effective work environment. 

What is something you think everyone should do at least once in their lives?

GO SCUBA DIVING! Scariest and most incredible thing I have done so far!

If you could trade places with any other person for a week, famous or not, living or dead, real or fictional, with whom would it be and why?

Jennifer Aniston. I believe she is a beautiful, intelligent, and strong woman. She always seems genuine and true to herself.