2023 a busy year for Loretto/BVM at the UN; meet our new intern!

Thank you so much for your support of Loretto/BVM (Sisters of Charity of the Blessed Virgin Mary of Dubuque) at the United Nations (UN). After many closures due to the pandemic, the U.N. has been fully open to civil society organizations like ours, and many programs are now hybrid as well. We hope you enjoy reading about some of what we’ve achieved in 2023 on social media this week and we offer the reflection below from our new 2023-24 intern, Leslie Baron. Enjoy!

Hello, everyone. … My journey to this incredible opportunity began when I was introduced to Loretto’s U.N. representative, Beth Blissman, by the Sisters of Notre Dame de Namur (SNDdeN). Interestingly, my initial plan to intern for SNDdeN in 2020 was disrupted by the global COVID-19 pandemic. Despite the challenges, I persevered with determination to arrive at this moment. I am deeply grateful for this chance to contribute and learn within the fascinating realm of international diplomacy. Stepping foot into the bustling streets of New York City for the very first time was an exhilarating experience filled with a sense of curiosity and anticipation.

The United Nations, as an institution, surprised me with its intricacy and depth. Navigating its complex web of diplomacy and policymaking was an eye-opener. I was struck by the diverse range of voices and perspectives that coalesce within its walls, highlighting the truly global nature of the organization. Understanding the inner workings of the U.N. sheds light on the immense challenges it tackles daily and the collective determination required to address them.

I was genuinely surprised by the profound impact Loretto has at the U.N.. Witnessing our organization’s influence firsthand was inspiring. Our collaboration with the U.N. showcased the power of dedicated individuals coming together for a shared purpose. It was amazing to see how our efforts resonate on such a global scale, leaving a lasting impression on everyone involved.

If you are interested in learning more about Loretto at the UN, please visit our web page, where you can find information about our mission, past and current projects, and how to get involved. To keep up with our activities, follow us on Facebook or Instagram!