This Monday, we are featuring Junior League of Charlotte, Inc. (JLC) member Dana Christian as part of our Member Monday series. Dana is the Junior League’s Risk Manager and currently works as an attorney. Read more about the Oakland, CA native below.
1) Thanks for taking time to share some personal insights with us today. Can you give us some background information about you?
I’m originally from Oakland, California and have three siblings. I’m an attorney and therefore, my current JLC role of Risk Manager is pretty fitting! My favorite thing to do is travel and I usually take one to two international trips a year to experience new parts of the world. My husband and I have now lived in Charlotte for five years and have enjoyed getting to know more people and watching the city grow.
2) What is the best and worst decision you’ve ever made?
My best decision would be marrying my husband. Sounds mushy but true because he’s great! My worst would be cutting my own bangs when I was younger – not once, but twice. Just don’t do it.
3) What woman inspires you and why?
My maternal grandmother is my biggest inspiration. She’s extremely intelligent, easily lovable, supportive and such an inspiration to everyone who knows her. She also knows more about technology than I do so she keeps me on my toes! It’s because of her that I have a passion for giving back to my community because I grew up watching her do the same and just exhibiting genuine care for others. She wouldn’t even call it “giving back” as to her, it’s just “living life.”
4) From start to finish, what would your ideal day be like?
On my perfect, ideal day, I’d wake up early and take a walk outside before the day starts. When I return, I’d catch up on just enough news on TV to stay informed and then head out the door to hike with my family. We’d enjoy a nice lunch and find a local outdoor event to attend in the afternoon. If I could throw in a winery visit, even better!
5) What keeps you up at night?
My husband and I are expecting twin girls next spring so I usually am up thinking about everything we have to do to prepare. We’re very excited but have a lot to plan!
6) If you could tell your 23-year-old self one thing what would it be?
Don’t worry so much! Soak up every moment now and know that everything will fall into place with hard work.
7) One thing people would be surprised to learn about you?
When I was very young, my dad was in the military so I traveled a lot and even spoke German when I lived in Germany as a toddler. Of course now, I know no German at all!
8) How has the Junior League helped you develop your potential, taught you something unique, and/or given you an opportunity that you never would have had otherwise?
The Junior League has helped me to continue my passion of helping my community. Believe it or not, it’s difficult to build those relationships without the support of an organization such as the JLC. In such an exciting time of growth here in Charlotte, the JLC serves as a reminder to me, my friends and family that there are still local children and families in need. I’m honored to be a part of this organization and proud to meet so many dedicated and selfless women through the league.
Written by Marielle Harris
