about
me
ruth pearce | indiana university
ruth pearce | indiana university
Jason and I hiking a local rail trail in Hamilton Co., IN (Nov. 2024)
Nice to Meet You!
Hi, my name is Ruth Pearce, and I’m a nontraditional student navigating the exciting world of higher education in my early 40s. My husband, Jason, and I recently traded the sunny beaches of South Walton, Florida, for the scenic trails and state parks of Fishers, Indiana. While both of our adult children decided to stay by the coast over coming to 'cold country,' our orange tabby cat, Zeus, made the leap with us.
I’m a lifelong learner and avid reader, with a growing love for watercolor painting, a hobby that feels as meditative as it is creative. I’m also deeply passionate about community involvement. Though I haven’t yet jumped into volunteering here, I’m eager to connect with some of Indy’s incredible organizations and make an impact.
Professionally, I’ve spent most of my career in the nonprofit sector, currently as an executive assistant, where I’ve been immersed in both daily operations and big-picture strategic planning.
Beyond the office, I wear many hats as a wife, mom, daughter, and the self-appointed “family manager.” These roles have taught me that leadership comes in many forms, from managing events and teams to navigating the ups and downs of family life with grace and adaptability.
Jason and I hiking in Saugatuck State Dunes, MI
(Oct. 2024)
I chose to pursue a degree in Community and Organizational Leadership because I’m passionate about helping people reach their fullest potential. There’s nothing more fulfilling to me than inspiring others, uncovering their strengths, and guiding them toward achieving their dreams and goals. If I could design my perfect day, it would be spent empowering others to become the truest version of themselves.
My attraction to this major comes from both professional and personal experiences. Over the years, I’ve developed a deep appreciation for the strategy behind understanding people, processes, and the products that make an organization thrive. Leadership isn’t just about managing tasks, it’s about creating environments where individuals and teams can excel.
Even in my personal time, I find myself drawn to leadership and management books, learning how these skills can transform not only organizations but also communities. Leadership is everywhere, from the workplace to our homes and neighborhoods, and this degree equips me to make an impact in all these areas.
With this program, I’m excited to grow as a leader, refine my skills, and use what I learn to empower others and create meaningful change.