Q&A with Diane

What do you do outside of work?

Outside of work, I’m very involved with my church community at Saint Patrick Catholic Church, where I teach Sunday school every Sunday and volunteer regularly with the Refugee Outreach Program. Being part of this program means a lot to me—it gives me the chance to meet people from all walks of life, listen to their stories, and help them feel welcomed and supported in a new place. It’s a cause that’s very close to my heart. My family is currently building an orphanage back home in Togo, so this work keeps me deeply connected to that mission of care, compassion, and community.

Faith and service are huge parts of who I am. Whether it’s helping organize Sunday school lessons or assisting families through the outreach program, I find so much joy in being part of something that uplifts others and spreads kindness in small but meaningful ways.

Favorite podcasts?

I love Dateline NBC for its deep storytelling and investigative edge, but my longtime favorite has to be World News with David Muir. I’ve been listening to (and watching) it since I was little. Funny story—when I was younger, I used to tease my mom for always watching the news. Now, as an adult, I catch myself doing the exact same thing! There’s something comforting about staying informed and hearing those familiar voices that I grew up around. It’s become part of my daily routine, a small piece of home and reflection..

Music you put on while you’re working?

My playlist is a colorful mix of Afrobeats, country music, gospel, and old Spanish classics. Afrobeats gives me energy and reminds me of home, country music keeps me grounded and calm, gospel keeps my spirit high, and Spanish songs add a touch of warmth and rhythm to my day. Music sets the tone for how I work—it’s like a soundtrack to my focus and creativity.

One book (or more, if you must) you'd recommend that you've read in the last 2 years?

I’m a hopeless romantic at heart, so Jane Eyre and Me Before You are two books that I would recommend any day. Both stories explore love in its most selfless and challenging forms—how it can be both fragile and powerful, painful and beautiful. They remind me that no matter where we are in life, love and empathy are what truly connect us.

Favorite childhood breakfast cereal?

Coco Puffs! I still smile when I think about those Saturday mornings growing up—watching cartoons with a bowl of Coco Puffs and not a care in the world. Even now, I keep a box around sometimes because it brings back that simple, happy feeling of childhood comfort..