35 under 35

Samantha Garcia Pi Lambda - University of Tennessee at Chattanooga

Professional Development Program Associate - Program Manager, Unum Group

Delta Zeta Women's Membership Organization | Delta Zeta Sorority

Which of the Delta Zeta shared values resonates with you the most? Generosity

How did you discover your passion for what you do, and what opportunities have helped shape your career?

My VP of Membership Advisor was a huge help in my career with stellar advice. Seeing her devote so much time to helping others really led me to wanting to support others in their early careers.

Who has been an invaluable mentor for your professional career? What did you learn from them?

My Senior Leader Mentor, Polly Nicholas. She’s amazing and truly cares about people in her operations. The best quote she ever said to me was ”Growth does not come without execution.”

What words of wisdom or advice do you live by?

”Growth does not come without execution.” In order for you to grow as a person, you have to execute on what you’ve agreed to do whether that’s personal learning, etc. It also applies to a department. In order for there to be growth, we need everyone to execute on their pieces of the bigger puzzle.

What is the most impactful book you have read, or podcast you have listened to, that relates to you professionally? What made it so impactful?

“Atomic Habits” is the most impactful book I’ve read. It helped me create habits in my work life that led to a better way of working and ensured I’m not missing things as I have a built process of what steps to follow and when.

How do you make sure you stay connected with your professional network?

My program thankfully helps with networking, but I also make it a point to set reminders on my calendar biannually to reach out to influential people in my network that are not at my current employer so that I stay in touch with them and often times that will lead to grabbing coffee or dinner with them.

How have friendships 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?

It’s true what they say – it’s about who you know when trying to progress in a career! Heather Melton, my VP of Membership Advisor from when I was an active, is always in my corner, and I go to her for advice all the time. I would not be in the position I am in if it wasn’t for her believing in me and prepping me for countless interviews, etc.

What is your favorite thing to do outside of work?

I love home projects! From planting new landscape, renovating parts of my house, etc. It’s all so fun, and you can be as creative as you want with it!

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