Staff Spotlight: Megan Pugh
Megan Pugh is the new Racial Justice Director at the YWCA of Asheville, and we recently sat down with her to learn a little more about her.
Tell me a little bit about yourself and what brought you to the YWCA of Asheville.
I moved to Asheville after graduate school at Valdosta State University to begin a job at UNC Asheville, where I remained until this last summer. Immediately I knew that I wanted to work somewhere that had similar commitments to advocacy for the community, and when I saw the posting for the Racial Justice Director position I knew I had to apply. Luckily, it all worked out!
What do you see as the role of YWCA of Asheville?
In addition to being a hub of services for Asheville and the broader WNC community, I see the YW as a bridge to resources that otherwise would be difficult to find in this area. The commitment to women’s empowerment and the number of children and families served here is so important. And to see that work done in the larger context of racial justice and collaboration with community members and neighbors… it was critical in my choice to come here and has continued to be a highlight of the short time I’ve been on board.
Who was an important or inspirational woman in your life growing up (and why)?
I know everyone says this, but my mother definitely. She emigrated from St. Lucia (aka the beautiful “Helen of the West Indies”) in her very early twenties, along with several of her siblings. My mother was (and continues to be) my guidepost as my favorite version of myself. She is hardworking, resilient, funny, grounded in her values, compassionate, and agile when things don’t go how she’d planned. I aspire to be more and more like her as I grow in age and life experience. I aim to be a reflection of the best parts of her. I hope that makes her proud.
What/who motivates you to keep moving forward?
The answer to this question has changed over the years. First it was my mom, then it was my siblings, then my friends and loved ones, my nieces, my students, so on and so forth. But now I feel motivated by myself and the vision of my life that I want. The goal of living in peace, being present, and moving with ease through life’s challenges is one of the greatest motivators I’ve ever had.
What/who inspires you most right now?
The absolute resistance of young people against injustices of all kinds. Their devotion to making the world better, rather than hoping it will be, is energizing. It’s also a barometer of how near or far I am from acting with the same courage and commitment. The young adults of today (including my peers) are putting their feet down and saying, “enough is enough.” And I love that for them, me, and all of us.
What would people be surprised to know about you?
Probably that I really love learning about reptiles. I have no reptiles, I’ve barely held any in my hands, and I don’t typically know a lizard from a gecko. They’re just so fascinating to me, and I’ve spent the last year in a deep dive learning about snakes and all manner of reptiles. It keeps my brain moving!
