Sydney is a native Midwesterner, born and raised in Michigan, and has spent the last six years living in Chicago and working in various public schools as an educator and program manager. As the daughter of a teacher, social worker, and minister, she has a deep conviction for the importance of serving and uplifting communities through human connection. In 2017, she had the opportunity to travel with a college group to Cape Town, South Africa where she interned at a research unit and was immersed in communities that worked in harmony to tackle challenges – this was the beginning of her journey in learning what it means to be a global citizen. Since then, she remains dedicated to serving her community, while also making a point to visit other parts of the world, creating connections and growing to be a better human. As the Chicago Programs Manager, Sydney works to ensure that Chicagoland students and schools are supported in all aspects of the program, both leading up to and after their summer travel experience. Outside of work, Sydney enjoys spending time with friends and family, staying active and outdoors (when the Chicago weather allows), and catching up on the latest news in TV/film or pop culture.