Her Story
About Arlene
Arlene Diaz is a dedicated educator with 26 years of experience in teaching and adult education. Her journey into education began after the birth of her second daughter, following an early career as a bank secretary and executive assistant. Determined to build a career with greater purpose, she pursued studies in education and sociology while balancing full-time and part-time employment. She eventually transitioned to working at a college as an assistant to the residential dean, allowing her to devote more time to completing her education. After earning her teaching certification, Arlene spent three years in the private education sector before transitioning to public education, where she began her career as a bilingual educator in 2004.
Throughout her career, Arlene has gained extensive experience across multiple grade levels and educational settings. She has taught pre-K and kindergarten, including 11 years in kindergarten, as well as first, fourth, sixth, and seventh grades. She has spent the past 10 years teaching fourth grade and has also dedicated five years to adult education as an ESL adjunct instructor at Union County College. Arlene earned her master’s degree in TESOL from Grand Canyon University approximately 10 years ago, strengthening her expertise in teaching English to speakers of other languages. Her commitment to lifelong learning continues today as she pursues a master’s degree in social work, with plans to transition into a new chapter of her career as a licensed clinical social worker following her retirement from education.
Arlene attributes her success to her tenacity and her belief that she is capable of achieving more. Growing up with few role models, she learned early to rely on her determination, resilience, and willingness to create opportunities for herself. These qualities have guided her through decades of professional growth, continued education, and personal challenges. Her career reflects a lifelong commitment to learning, serving others, and embracing new opportunities, demonstrating that perseverance and a passion for meaningful work can create possibilities at every stage of life.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Arlene
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to my tenacity and my belief that I am capable of achieving more. I grew up with very few, if any, role models, so much of what I have accomplished has come from my determination, resilience, and willingness to keep pushing forward. I have learned to trust myself, overcome challenges, and remain committed to my goals, even when the path was uncertain.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I have ever received is to pursue work with passion. I believe passion is essential to building a career that is both sustainable and fulfilling because when we genuinely care about what we do, we are more motivated to grow, overcome challenges, and make a meaningful difference. My own journey in education has shown me that meaningful work is about more than earning a living; it is about finding purpose in what you do and using your work to positively impact others. My mother especially encouraged me to pursue my education and create opportunities for myself that she did not have, and her words have stayed with me throughout my life. Her encouragement ultimately inspired me to return to school at 59 to pursue a master’s degree in social work, reinforcing my belief that it is never too late to pursue your passion and invest in your future.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
I would encourage young women entering my industry to pursue it with genuine passion. This work requires dedication, patience, and resilience, and without a true passion for what you do, it can be easy to become overwhelmed or burned out. Find what inspires you, stay connected to your purpose, and allow that passion to guide you through challenges and growth.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
The biggest challenges in my field often come with balancing the demands of education, professional responsibilities, and the evolving needs of the people I serve. Throughout my career, I have learned that challenges can also create meaningful opportunities for growth and new beginnings. Whether adapting to unexpected changes, pursuing additional education, or taking on new roles, I have embraced opportunities to expand my skills and make a greater impact. I believe the ability to remain open to change, continue learning, and turn obstacles into opportunities is essential to building a fulfilling and lasting career.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values that are most important to me in both my professional and personal life are respect, compassion, empathy, responsibility, and ethics. I believe in treating everyone with dignity, even when that same respect is not extended to me. I choose to respond to difficult situations with empathy and compassion rather than disrespect, understanding that everyone has their own experiences and challenges. These values guide how I interact with others, take responsibility for my actions, and maintain integrity in everything I do.
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