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Alexis Chilson Totleben Iota Delta - PennWest Edinboro
Guidance Counselor, Cathedral Preparatory School
Which of the Delta Zeta shared values resonates with you the most? 0
Can you share a brief 5-7 sentence biography about yourself, highlight key moments in your career that have shaped who you are today?
In 2010, I transferred to a university closer to home to save money. I knew I wanted to get involved to have a meaningful college experience. From the moment I met the women of Delta Zeta at PennWest Edinboro, I felt right at home. I transferred as an education major but changed majors twice before graduating in 2013 with a bachelor’s in history and no real career path. I worked in retail management for the next two years, then decided to pursue a master’s degree in counseling with a concentration in college students and student affairs. I graduated in 2018 with my master’s and then worked for six years at Gannon University in Erie, Pennsylvania. As I progressed in my career, I lost more and more time with students, which is where my passion lies. In August 2024, I changed gears and now serve as a guidance counselor at a high school. This career change, while challenging, has given me my passion back and I spend the majority of my day with students.
Who has been an invaluable mentor for your professional career? What did you learn from this friendship?
My previous supervisor at Gannon had a profound impact on me not only in my professional life but in my personal life as well. She has kids who are few years older than mine, so I always valued her parenting advice and knew I could go to her with any questions. She also taught me to balance my time, work hard and advocate for myself.
How did you discover your passion and what opportunities have helped shape your curiosity for what you do?
Oddly enough, getting less time with students made me realize that working directly with students is my passion. As I progressed in the world of higher education, I got to spend less and less time with individual students and spent more time in an administrator role. I realized that I was missing out on student interaction and therefore wasn’t feeling fulfilled in my role. I investigated a career change, and was lucky enough to find a great opportunity and a school willing to take me on with no K-12 experience. I’m so happy to be here now that I get to work with students!
Looking ahead in your career, how do you envision continuing to incorporate generosity into your leadership style and professional endeavors?
Always leading with an open mind and open heart is who I am. I always try to see the best in people and help them discover that in themselves. I hope to continue helping others see the best in themselves as I progress as a counselor in the K-12 setting.
How has your community helped you professionally? Is there a friend (or Delta Zeta sister) that has been behind you every step of the way on your career journey?
I wouldn’t be where I am today without my community. I am lucky enough to have a group of 10 Delta Zeta sisters who I talk to almost weekly. We support each other as we navigate family, careers and life in general. They have always been behind me and I am so thankful to have them in my life.
What does empowerment mean to you, and how have you worked to empower others in your career or personal life?
Empowerment means advocating for yourself and those who cannot, and what you believe is right and just. I try to empower my students every day to be their own advocates in the classroom and take charge of their own future.
What does it mean to you to create an environment of belonging for others, and how do you carry that lesson into your personal and professional life?
I think leading with an open mind and open heart applies here too. Making sure everyone feels welcome to be who they are is so important. Allowing my students, friends, family and community to show up as they are, and love and support them for that is how I create an environment of belonging.