Name: Amy Essley
Title: Chief Program Officer
Start Date: August 2002
My husband Eric and I were matched as a Big Couple to Little Brother James in 2002. Although we officially graduated in 2009, we continue to play important roles in each other’s lives.
My favorite memory from working at BBBSCI is … Moving into our new building. Lots of people put a lot of blood, sweat and tears (and money) to make the building and the move possible. It is so nice to come to work in a beautiful building each day. We know having this space will help us raise the bar on the work we do and our relationship with the community.
What I love most about my job is … In addition to the friends that I have made, I love that every day is different! We are a learning organization. We are never satisfied with the status quo. With this, are new opportunities to be engaged in different projects and relationships. One of my favorites is participating in a Six Sigma project sponsored by our friends at Cummins which led to the development of The Big App. A mobile application for our Bigs that communicates and tracks our match activities and events.
How has mentoring played a role in your life? I’m a connector. I love introducing people from my various circles who I think have something in common, share a mutual relationship or can learn from each other. One of the reasons that his is so important to me, is it paves the way for mentoring relationships. Through my years at BBBSCI, I have intentionally worked with many interns in order to pay it forward and share what I have learned from my mentors. For me, I’m lucky that I have always had a personal and professional mentor, my Dad.
When I’m not at work, you can find me … At one of my boys sporting events (cross county, football, wrestling, track and field) and I love every minute of it!
What is your favorite spot(s) in Indy? The Indianapolis Motor Speedway holds a special place for me-that is where my husband proposed to me! For years, before and after the proposal, we have gone to the Indy 500 with a large group of college friends.
Contact Amy at aessley@bbbsci.org or 317-472-3726.