"One" Interview with Jennifer Resor-Whicker
2020-2021 President

Your itinerary for one perfect day in Virginia:
Start the morning with a trip to the gluten free bakery in Salem, Corbin’s Confections. Spend the afternoon getting a manicure and a pedicure. End the day enjoying dinner with friends (and hopefully mountain views) at one of the wonderful restaurants in downtown Roanoke or Salem.

One thing you can’t live without:
Star Wars, because Darth Vader taught me that with enough determination, a commanding presence, and an ominous theme song, you can get anything done. Also, I look good in a cape. (Some of you may remember the Darth Vader dress I wore to take the gavel as President in 2019.)

One project or initiative you’re most proud of from your presidential term:
The launch of the Affiliate Membership program began during my time on the Executive Committee. While the credit for bringing it to life goes to Lisa Varga, I was proud to be part of the conversations that helped shape its implementation. Affiliate Membership offers a flexible and accessible way for more library workers across Virginia to engage with VLA, expanding our reach and strengthening the professional network that supports our field. It’s a meaningful step toward greater inclusion and sustainability for the association.

One favorite memory from your presidency’s annual conference:
My favorite memory from every VLA conference, including during my presidency, is the chance to reconnect with friends and colleagues from across the state. These gatherings are more than professional events; they’re reunions of passionate people exchanging ideas, offering support, and inspiring one another. The relationships I’ve built through VLA have shaped my career in meaningful ways and made me a stronger, more thoughtful librarian.

One piece of advice for library workers:
You don’t have to do everything to make a difference. Be generous with your time, your ideas, and your support, but make sure you are protecting your energy. It is important to be aware of your limits and take care of yourself.

One post-presidency accomplishment you’d like to share:
Last year, I achieved a long-held professional goal when I was named University Librarian at Radford University. Stepping into this leadership role has been both a personal milestone and an exciting opportunity to shape the future of academic libraries in meaningful ways.