This March, BookSpring brought on a new leadership team member to our small but powerful team. Joy Diaz, Associate Director, comes with a wealth of experience in education, media, and storytelling. Her passion for books and amplifying early literacy is undeniable, and we at BookSpring cannot be more excited for the energy and fresh perspective she will bring to our work towards greater book access.

Today, we sat down with Joy and asked a few questions so our community could get to know her a little better!

What are you most excited about coming into BookSpring? What impact do you hope to have?

One of the most exciting things for me is that BookSpring is a 52-year-old non-profit organization. Why is this exciting? Because it tells me that BookSpring has weathered storms and has come out triumphant. Another thing I absolutely love is our mission to ignite the love of reading in children and families. How cool is that?

Looking back at your career so far, what accomplishment are you most proud of?

My life and career have been very colorful (maybe I should write a book some day 🙂). I’ve worked with people with leprosy, traveled with a circus, run for office, been a teacher, I’m a mother, I’ve worked for Austin ISD HQ, I’ve traveled for work, and met a lot of people. But my proudest moment is when I’ve been able to touch someone’s life in a positive way. I believe books have that power too!

What are you most passionate about outside of work?

I’m a reader! I paint! I like reupholstering interesting pieces. I love shoes, the arts, and coffee! My kids are amazing humans, and hanging out with them is a solid experience every time. I love traveling. What else? I just love life, you know?

Do you have a favorite quote or motto that you live by?

There are several quotes I love. But one that I constantly go to is a Bible verse from the book of Proverbs from chapter 31, verses 8 and 9 read: “Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves, for the rights of all who are destitute. Speak up and judge fairly; defend the rights of the poor and needy.”

I am always motivated to be an advocate for others. Right now, my mission is to advocate for book access.

What’s one piece of advice you’d give to others working in the non-profit sector, education, etc?

To my colleagues in the non-profit world, I’d say: Fall in love with your mission. When you love and promote your mission, others will love it too. Pretty soon, you will have created a movement. Onward!

 

We are so excited to have Joy join our team and help lead the next chapter of BookSpring’s work.