Q&A with Mary Lucal
Q. You have prior experience at a few higher education institutions, including George Mason University, University of Tennessee, and Harvard. How has that helped prepare you for Wake Forest?
Nothing truly prepares you to join a campus like Wake Forest with such a long and storied history. I will say that at each institution I’ve loved the process of learning: the people, the culture(s), the areas of possibility! Perhaps it’s my spirit of curiosity that has prepared me best for joining this amazing place.
Q. What excites you most about becoming part of the Wake Forest community?
As a relatively recent empty-nester, I am looking forward to working with a deeply talented HR team AND being active in the community beyond our work day. I can’t wait to cheer on our Deacs, get my hands dirty in the Campus Garden, and check out the student-run coffee shop, Campus Grounds!
Q. As an HR professional, what is the biggest lesson you’ve learned?
Why is it that the biggest lessons we learn often come through difficult learning moments? I’ve had many of those over my career, but one that stands out for me is this: The person standing in front of you in need will always take precedence over the deadline or task that can feel, in the moment, equally important. Don’t ever mix up those priorities.
Q. What has been one highlight of your first two weeks at Wake Forest?
As I write this, I am sitting in Reynolda Hall with a view out to Wait Chapel. Its bells are ringing, students are streaming into the open doors, and faculty in regalia are hurrying by on the brick walk. New Student Convocation! Such an exciting day, full of promise. I feel like those students, new to campus but sure this is going to be a grand adventure! This exact moment, right now, is my favorite so far.
Q. If you weren’t a CHRO, what other career would you be pursuing?
I originally went to college to become a forest ranger. Perhaps it is fitting that, after 25 years in higher education, I’ve finally made it to the “Forest.”
Q. What is something people might be surprised to learn about you?
I am an avid birder! If you ever want to stroll around campus and talk, I’m your person, but expect to hear me randomly call out things like “Fish Crow!” or “Brown-headed Nuthatch!”
Q. What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?
“Keep your assertions humble.” Spoken to me by Dr. Norma Mertz, my dissertation advisor and dear friend. So true in so many corners of my life.
ICYMI: Learn more about Mary and her prior experience by reading the announcement posted to InsideWFU.