Angelica Healy’s journey to becoming the director of operations at St. Margaret’s House wasn’t always a clear path. Embracing life’s twists and turns, Healy’s journey reflects a commitment to community and self-discovery.
Growing up in Osceola, Indiana, Healy graduated from Penn High School before attending Indiana University South Bend (IUSB). Initially, she was unsure of what she wanted to major in, so she just took classes that interested her until she could figure out what she wanted to do.
“Eventually, my advisor told me I was on track to get a degree in women’s studies — now called gender studies — and asked if that was something I’d want to major in,” Healy said. “That’s how I ended up declaring my major.”
Healy’s senior year proved to be a turning point that shaped the course of her future career. When her advisor mentioned that she was just one class away from earning a certificate in cultural and social diversity, she added a sociology class to her schedule.
“I had to do 12 hours of volunteer work for that sociology class, which I thought was going to be difficult to fit into my schedule because I was working full-time and going to school full-time,” Healy said. “I took half days at my job on Friday mornings and started volunteering at St. Margaret’s House.”
Initially committing to two hours a week for six weeks, Healy found herself drawn to the community and continued volunteering beyond the class requirement. By the time she graduated, she had built strong connections at St. Margaret’s House and was offered a position as a guest services caseworker.
After nine years at St. Margaret’s House, Healy was ready for a change. She moved to Asheville, North Carolina, a city she had enjoyed visiting in the past. While there, she trained to become a yoga instructor and delved into minimalism and self-reflection. However, she soon realized that Asheville’s lack of diversity left her unfulfilled.
“I thought being around people who looked, ate, and thought like me would be great, but it didn’t have the same degree of diversity I loved back home,” Healy said.
After a brief move to California for another yoga training, Healy decided to return to the Michiana area after only a year away.
Back in her hometown, Healy visited her former colleagues at St. Margaret’s House. Though she didn’t go with the intention of getting a job, she was offered a part-time, temporary position. This eventually evolved into her transition to director of development and marketing and later to her current role as director of operations.
For Healy, the diversity of people she encounters at St. Margaret’s House continues to be a highlight of her work.
“My favorite part about my job has always been the diversity of relationships that I have through St. Margaret’s House,” Healy said.
Outside of her work, Healy is passionate about yoga, teaching three classes weekly. She also enjoys several outdoor activities like kayaking, hiking, and camping.