Yvette Perez-Chavez
I first met Julie as an Americorps member at College Possible in 2015. I had no idea how big of an impact Julie would have on my life when I first arrived. Being one of the few people of color, and one of the handful of people who actually came from a low-income background, I struggled to connect with my peers. What kept me motivated during those two years were the students I served, and frankly, Julie. I gravitated to her when I was hesitant with everyone else. I think one of the reasons was because of how genuine she was. She had a way of making you feel safe and seen all at once and you always knew exactly where you stood with her.
Before Julie, I don’t think I had ever met anyone who lived as authentically the way she did. I loved how unapologetic she was. She absolutely inspired me. I remember some of my favorite times at the office were the days I would catch her with her office door open and I would take it as an invitation to come in. We would talk about anything and everything. She was such a great listener, truly empathetic, animated and hilarious. We kept in touch for years after my time had ended with College Possible catching up over the phone and going on lunch dates.
Some of my favorite memories of Julie:
-Julie being in the middle of conducting interviews with Program Manager candidates, and her running out of the interview halfway through to tell me one of the candidates had graduated from the school I was considering for graduate school. She wanted to make sure we connected.
-Her going all out anytime it was someone’s birthday in the office. She always had singing flower candles ready. She also had the most ridiculous stocking stuffers when the holidays rolled around. It was because of Julie I learned about Cargo.
-After mentioning my Oregon Dad several times she insisted on meeting him over lunch. It surprised me that Julie would want to know about the people in my personal life. We went to Eastlund and had a great time. She had a knack for picking up on people to connect with.
-Leaving one of our lunch dates a valet asked if Julie was my mother. I responded saying “I wish.” She loved that response.
-Going a while without catching up and her bombarding me with what felt like 21 questions every time. I loved that she would always cut straight to the point with whatever was on her mind.
-One of the final texts I sent her was with a former student turned work colleague with the caption, “Me and X say hi. We’re all grown up now.” She responded by saying we both looked beautiful and it made her teary.
I wish we had had the chance for one more phone call or lunch date. Thank you for all the love, joy, humor, mentorship and light that you brought to everyone around you. I miss you so much already.