Her Story
About Talia
Talia Posterli, M.A., is a Program Coordinator at the Labor Education Center at DePaul University, where she brings her academic background in Women’s and Gender Studies to labor focused education and training programs for unions. Her work reflects a strong commitment to creating inclusive educational environments and helping learners and communities engage thoughtfully with issues surrounding gender, equity, and workplace education. Talia earned her bachelor’s and master’s degrees in Women’s and Gender Studies from DePaul University, building an interdisciplinary foundation that continues to shape her professional and academic pursuits.
One of Talia’s notable professional contributions is the development of an online course that was later transformed into a toolkit for parents and caregivers to facilitate inclusive conversations about gender in schools, particularly in communities that may be hesitant about transgender inclusion. Through this work, she seeks to challenge bias, encourage thoughtful dialogue, and support more inclusive curricula that recognize and respect students of all genders. Her broader interests in gender inclusive education, curriculum design, professional development, and community engagement reflect her belief in the importance of creating spaces where different perspectives and experiences are valued.
Talia attributes her success to remaining grounded in her values and maintaining a strong sense of what she believes is right, while consistently working hard and pursuing her interests with curiosity and passion. She believes that learning is a shared process and that people grow by learning from, supporting, and building upon one another’s ideas and experiences. Looking ahead, Talia plans to pursue a Ph.D. and become a professor, with the goal of teaching and inspiring students to critically examine gender patterns, biases, and the forces that shape society. Through education, research, and advocacy, she hopes to empower future generations to think critically, embrace diverse perspectives, and contribute to meaningful change.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Talia
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to staying grounded in my values and remaining committed to what I believe is right, even when it may be challenging. I have always been willing to work hard, remain persistent, and hold myself to a high standard without compromising my principles. My natural curiosity drives me to understand things at a deeper level, and the passion I have developed through that pursuit continues to motivate me, fuel my growth, and inspire me to make a meaningful impact.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I’ve ever received is to trust that when you are good at something, genuinely love what you do, and remain passionate about it, the right opportunities will naturally follow. I believe that staying true to your strengths and pursuing work with purpose and enthusiasm creates a strong foundation for success, and that the right career path and opportunities will ultimately fall into place.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
The advice I would give to young women entering my industry is to remember that your voice, perspective, and experiences matter. The field needs you, and the world needs you. Embrace change, remain open to new ideas, and recognize the strength that comes from bringing different backgrounds and perspectives to the table. This industry values fluidity, inclusivity, and fresh thinking, so never underestimate the impact your unique perspective can make.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the greatest opportunities in my field is the growing recognition of the importance of diverse perspectives, identity, and inclusive scholarship. One of my most impactful mentors, Dr. Farrar, inspired me to pursue Women’s and Gender Studies and encouraged me to embrace my boundaries and the unique aspects of my identity. Her guidance profoundly shaped my perspective, empowering me to appreciate and develop my individuality while giving me the confidence to bring my authentic voice and experiences into my work.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values that are most important to me in both my work and personal life are unity, collaboration, and continuous learning. I believe we grow stronger when we learn from one another, share our knowledge and experiences, and build upon each other’s ideas. Learning is not limited to what a teacher can provide; some of the most meaningful lessons come from the people around us and the perspectives they bring.
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