Tracy Dunstan, Marist ‘08

Majored in History/Secondary Education with a minor in Psychology.

What has your career path been to this point?

I went to Marist to be a high school history teacher, but life led me to become a librarian. I'm currently the Head of Adult & Digital Services at the Nyack Library in Nyack, NY.

Can you share an experience from your time at HRVI that stands out as meaningful?

As an intern, I had the opportunity to work at Mount Gulian Historic Site in Beacon. The experience exposed me to the nonprofit sector, a field I continue to work in to this day. I also learned that my love of history could be utilized outside the education field and helpful grant writing, research, and writing skills.

How has your experience at HRVI helped you advance your education and/or professional pursuits since graduating from Marist?

My time at Mount Gulian through HRVI was one of my favorite working experiences. I gained valuable contacts and skills that I continue to use as a librarian.

As HRVI celebrates its 20th anniversary in 2022, do you have any advice for future HRVI interns based on your time at HRVI and your experience in your professional field?

Take a risk and try something unexpected! For example, I approached HRVI about doing an internship at a local historic site, not thinking it would happen, and ended up with a remarkable experience that had a lasting impact on my life and career. This year I had my boss from Mount Gulian offer a program for the Library which was a nice full circle.