Valerie Lovelock, PACE
Valerie Lovelock, PACE, serves as an Executive Assistant II at Saint Louis University School of Medicine, where she supports the Interim Associate Dean of the Office of Ignatian Mission in Medicine. In this role, she facilitates communication with internal and external stakeholders, contributes to daily operations, and supports strategic initiatives. Previously, she served as Interim Program Director for Students and Pipelines, overseeing diversity and inclusion programs and using tools like Microsoft 365 and Power BI to create impactful presentations and reports.
Valerie is pursuing a Master of Arts in Leadership at Jessup University, where she focuses on leadership development, strategic planning, and organizational growth. Her professional philosophy centers on faith-driven service, humility, and advocacy for marginalized communities. She emphasizes persistence and a student-centered approach, believing in walking with and for others while fostering meaningful opportunities for growth and collaboration.
Before returning to the workforce in 2021, Valerie spent 17 years homeschooling her children and volunteering extensively in community organizations, gaining deep experience in administration and program coordination. She also owns Scentsable Wellness, reflecting her entrepreneurial spirit and commitment to community well-being. Valerie has been recognized with the Staff Pillar of Professionalism Award and remains actively involved in volunteer work supporting local nonprofits and homeschool initiatives.
• AI-Powered Presentations: Crafting Compelling PowerPoints with ChatGPT and Copilot
• Leveraging AI as a Team Member
• Project Management Essentials Certified
• Professional Administrative Certification of Excellence PLUS Program
• A Guide to ERGs
• SharePoint: Creating Communication Sites
• Mental Health First Aid
• Collaborating with Microsoft 365
• Power BI: Dashboards for Beginners
• Cultural Humility and Agility
• Microsoft Teams Essential Training
• Visual Storytelling in PowerPoint
• Wilson University - B.S.
• Jessup University- M.A.
• Staff Pillar of Professionalism Award
• St. Louis Area Food Bank
• Casa de Salud
• Veterans Community Project
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to perseverance, humility, and a commitment to continuous learning. Returning to the workforce after 17 years of homeschooling and volunteering, I embraced every opportunity to grow, from managing diversity and inclusion programs to earning recognition like the Staff Pillar of Professionalism Award. My ongoing pursuit of a Master’s in Leadership drives me to expand my skills and make a meaningful impact in higher education and the community.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I’ve ever received came from two incredible mentors. Dr. Daniel Blash taught me the importance of belonging, support, and advocating for justice and humanity in every aspect of life and work. Catrina Wade showed me how to lead with quiet strength, protect your team, and balance administrative, educational, and clinical responsibilities with care and integrity—lessons that continue to guide me every day.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering this field is to be relentless in pursuing your goals and never let imposter syndrome hold you back. Trust that you belong at the table, take pride in your unique skills, and know that with hard work and determination, anything is possible—you’ve earned your place.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values most important to me in both my work and personal life are faith, family, and service. My family, especially my granddaughter, is my greatest joy, and I prioritize spending quality time with them whenever possible. I am also passionate about personal growth and empowerment—whether through practicing jujitsu, pursuing leadership and educational opportunities, or serving my community and church—and I strive to make a meaningful impact through faith-driven service and advocacy for causes close to my heart, like the St. Louis Area Food Bank, Casa de Salud, and the Veterans Community Project.