Elizabeth McConnell

What jobs did you have before coming to WVU?

I was working at the Morgantown Public Library as a children’s page.

What has been the best or most enjoyable time/class/moment in your job?

I think it’s really the people that I work with. When we’re not having covid, we like to go out and get some meals together. We’re a good team and we have a lot of laughs together.

What's something you recently learned?

During the pandemic, I’ve noticed a lot more patience, compassion. I think that will help me with my job a lot; I’m a better listener now. I think you just learn to slow down a little bit and put yourself in the other person’s shoes and look at a different perspective.

What's one thing you wish you had known in college?

I wish that I would have been more open to try different courses. I wish I had studied more science. If I could go back I would have learned more science.

If you won a billion dollars, what would you do with the money?

I’d buy a big mansion and make it a library! Also, I’ve always wanted to have a farm. I think I would have a big ol’ horse farm. My family has a little farm and they’re kind enough to let me keep a couple horses.

What were you most grateful for in 2020?

I was lucky enough that my children were able to stay with us through the quarantine, and we spent a lot of quality time together. We started doing things we didn’t do before like working puzzles. We’ve been doing a lot of baking like a lot of people. It was a time when we just had fun together. It was just a different relationship. We were in it together, not so much my husband and I as the leaders and they as the children. We were just sort of all equals together. It was kind of a warm friendship time. I definitely got through it a lot better having them with me than if I were alone that’s for sure.

What have you been excited for in 2021?

I am excited for things getting back to normal. I’m excited for big cookouts and going to sporting events. We love going to football games. Hugging: I'm excited for hugging.

Just for Fun

What are you currently reading? Circe by Madeline Miller and Braiding Sweetgrass

What’s your favorite meal? Spaghetti and meatballs

What’s a song that you can listen to on repeat? When You Say Nothing at All by Alison Krause

What’s one thing you can’t live without? My family, including our dogs!