REC Coordinators are vital to Urban Initiatives’ mission of empowering Chicago’s youth to become agents of community change through academic success, healthy living, and leadership development. They drive systematic change by connecting stakeholders and strengthening the social fabric of the community. Meet Anna, one of UI’s newest REC Coordinators!
Basic info: Name, birthday, where you last went to school
Anna Bradsher, 12/09/1988, Appalachian State University.
Who is your favorite Spice Girl/Backstreet Boy/Power Ranger?
Sporty Spice, Nick Carter, The Red Ranger.
Who is someone that has really inspired you in your lifetime?
Someone who’s been an inspiration to me is this Chinese man who faced tons of persecution for his beliefs but he never backed down or gave up.
If we gave you $20 to go spend on anything right now, what would you buy?
I’d buy blinds for my room. It’s so bright in here.
What’s your favorite type of cheese and why?
Goat cheese because it’s so creamy and smooth. It never overpowers other food, only supplements.
What is your spirit animal?
Monkey because they can run fast, jump far and can fly to a certain extent.
If you were to throw a dinner party, who are 3 people you’d want to invite?
At my dinner party I would invite my best friend cause I gotta have a go-to person to talk to if things get awkward, Michael Jordan because he’s mad interesting and he lived in Chicago so he can give me some good tips (although I’ve heard he’s really bad tipper at restaurants), and my dad cause he’s gotta meet Michael Jordan.
What is the last book you read?
Compassion by Henri Nouwen.
What’s the best place to get food in Chicago?
The only restaurant in Chicago I’ve eaten at is Pequod’s sooooo there, I guess.
How would your best friend describe you?
Spontaneous and always down for an adventure, active, super chill, sarcastic but in a great way. Basically, the best.
What’s your favorite childhood sports-related memory?
My fave childhood sports memory is a soccer tournament to Miami when I was 18. We had no parents, were beaching it and just acting a fool. Matter of fact, any soccer tournament was the best.
What are you most excited about for this year?
I’m excited to see the changes and progress in my relationship with the kids, especially these middle schoolers.
What was your first impression of Jim Dower?
He’s alright.
Anything else you’d like to share?
What you see is what you get.