Volunteer Spotlight: Megan Becker

Volunteer Spotlight: Megan Becker

Tell us about your professional/educational background.
I am the Director of Residential Life at Virginia Commonwealth University. I received my Bachelor's degree in Classical Studies with a minor in Art from the University of New Hampshire, a Master's degree in College Student Personnel from Western Illinois University, and my doctorate in Educational Leadership from Virginia Commonwealth University.

What makes the National CMV Foundation's mission powerful for you?
The education and awareness focus of the National CMV Foundation is one of the most essential aspects.  Making others aware of how to take precautions to possibly prevent cCMV while a vaccine is being developed is the most humane thing that can be done.  People are not able to be cautious and make responsible choices if they are not informed about the prevalence and impacts of CMV on their unborn child.

What made you decide to get more involved with the National CMV Foundation, as a Community Alliance Chair? 
I got more involved as a Community Alliance Chair because I truly believe in the vision, mission, and values of the National CMV Foundation.  The pivotal moment for me to take the leap and sign-up was after completing my first speaking engagement about my family’s experience navigating our son’s cCMV diagnosis to a local infant and toddler service coordinator group. The opportunity to educate others about cCMV and share my story was empowering.  I knew that I needed to take this energy and continue to contribute to the further education and advocacy of the foundation.
 
In your role as CMV Community Alliance Chair, what goals have you set for 2024?
I will further cCMV education of practitioners in the local Richmond area by:

• Presenting to the local Infant & Toddler Connection of Virginia service coordination teams
• Sharing educational materials with local Richmond OB and pediatric practices
• Serving on the Virginia EDHI annual conference planning team

I will provide support for CMV families by:

• Sending outreach quarterly to registered Virginia families via email and phone to increase connection and community
• Co-planning the Virginia Strides for CMV walk to provide an annual event for CMV families to congregate
• Leading a Care to Talk session
• Writing and publishing a book that shows representation of cCMV in a children’s book

What does success look like to you?
Success sometimes gets confused with results.  Success to me is equally the results and process of achieving those results.  So much growth personally happens when working towards a goal.  The personal development associated with working towards a goal is also success.

What motivates you?
Doing the right thing is what motivates me both personally and professionally. And stepping up to help further the advancement of the National CMV Foundation is the right thing to do for medical research, future mothers, and my son. 

As a volunteer leader, what advice do you have for people who want to work on CMV advocacy, but don’t know where to start?
Ask questions, share your story, and start small. CMV advocacy is a personal journey for everyone. Do not compare your advocacy efforts to others.  Lean into your personal skills and how you can take your strengths and apply them to CMV advocacy efforts.
 
Favorite quote? 
My favorite quote is by Neale Donald Walsch. They said, “Life begins at the end of your comfort zone.” I truly believe that challenging yourself to try new things that are typically not your norm brings the most fulfillment and joy.

What do you like most about living in Richmond, VA?
I love living in Richmond, Virginia for all of the festivals. The greater Richmond community hosts multiple festivals monthly which are typically free to enjoy. I have been exposed to new foods, culture, and celebrations by participating in these festivals. Getting outside and engaging in these festivals has also provided my family a way to meet new people in our community.

You're happiest when?
I am happiest when I am spending time outside with my camera snapping pictures, swimming, shoe shopping, drinking Starbucks coffee, watching movies, and spending time with family and friends.