Tell us your name, position at GRS and how long you've worked here:
My name is Olivia Lee Reinhardt, I'm an EA in Upper Elementary (Crow Wing). I've only worked here for about a month but I went to GRS for 7-12th grades (graduated 2019).
What is your favorite food?
My favorite food is Vietnamese Vermicelli Noodle Salad, especially from Quang in Minneapolis.
What does your cultural background mean to you?
My cultural background is a big part of my identity! I'm half Hmong and it has been a culture that I grew up with closely due to having such a massive and close knit family. I consider myself spiritual, similar to the spirituality in the homeland of Laos and we still give thanks to our ancestors and passed loved ones. I also love celebrating Hmong New Year and other family events because we all get to dress up in the beautiful hmong clothing and have yummy food like Nab Vam (a coconut tapioca drink), mov nplaum ntshaav (Purple sticky rice), and Nyhuv ntxwm hmoob (Hmong sausage).
What are your hobbies and interests outside of work?
I am an illustrator, and I got my degree in illustration at Minneapolis College of Art Design. I love to draw, especially characters and story developmental art. I strive to create a world that is colorful, bright and fun in my work through diverse characters and exploration of how culture can create a character. I do freelance work for clients that want to see their DnD characters come to life and it's amazing and fun to bring these characters from words to drawing. I also love cooking, playing video games and hanging out with my two cats and boyfriend.
What is something you are passionate about?
I'm very passionate about social justice and bringing diversity to spaces. Since coming to school here, I have worked hard to make sure GRS can grow and thrive with diversity goals. Now that I'm back, I'm so excited to see how we can keep progressing together.
What is a favorite quote of yours?
"My illustrious lordship, I'll show you what a woman can do." -Artemisia Gentileschi, Italian Baroque Painter
What is your greatest accomplishment thus far?
I am extremely proud of my senior art show at Minneapolis College of Art and Design in 2023, since it got me my degree! It was a massive showcase of my work and I was extremely proud of my art and all the time and dedication I put into it.
If you could have one wish for society what would it be?
I would wish for more empathy in the world, so much that everyone will open their arms to those in pain and we can begin healing the world together.
