Looking back on this moment still fills my heart with gratitude.
This photo is from when I was competing for Biggest Fan of the Big East Conference—a contest with 16 contestants representing schools across the conference. And I can say this without hesitation: no one was supported like I was.
My alma mater, University of Notre Dame, showed up for me in ways I will never forget.
When I visited campus, they handed me a Flip cam and encouraged me to document the weekend. Then they edited the footage and shared my story on their official website.
They put me on the jumbotron at every home game, encouraging fans to vote. Voting was a major component of the competition—and Notre Dame rallied behind me in a way none of the other contestants experienced.
Not one.
And when I won?
They didn’t move on.
They didn’t forget.
They featured my story in the Notre Dame vs. Stanford 2012 game program, celebrating not just the win—but the journey.
That kind of support stays with you.
I am endlessly grateful to Notre Dame—not just for backing me during that competition, but for the person it molded and shaped me into. For the confidence to raise my hand. For the courage to tell my story. And for the continued support I’ve felt in so many chapters of my life since.
Some places are more than schools.
They’re home.
Love thee, Notre Dame. 💚☘️
