It has been a month since Rose’s passing, and during this time, I’ve found myself reflecting on just how deeply she shaped my life. Rose was my mentor for the past two years, but she was so much more than that. She guided me academically, professionally, and personally during one of the most defining chapters of my life.
When I first joined Nonprofit Connection Santa Cruz County as an intern for my CSUMB capstone, I was unsure of my direction. I didn’t know what I wanted to focus on, what kind of work I wanted to pursue, or even who I wanted to become. Rose changed that. She saw something in me long before I saw it in myself. From the very beginning, she encouraged me to step into spaces I didn’t think I was ready for and helped me discover my passion for nonprofit work. That passion exists because of her.
As I was developing my capstone, I struggled to choose a topic that felt meaningful enough to pursue. Through conversations with Rose, and in the way she spoke about aging, care, and community, I found clarity. She introduced me to the world of senior services and helped me recognize the importance of supporting older adults in our county. She opened my eyes to the gaps, the needs, and the opportunities to make a difference. The reason my capstone centered on seniors is because Rose inspired it, guided it, and supported every part of it.
But Rose’s impact reached far beyond academics. She cared about my growth as a whole person. I could talk to her about school, work, stress, family or anything that weighed on me. She listened with patience and honesty, always offering guidance that made me feel grounded and capable. She reminded me of my strengths when I doubted myself and believed in me long before I learned how to believe in myself.
What made Rose truly special was the depth of her care. She cared about my assignments and projects, but she cared even more about my well-being, my confidence, and my happiness. She checked in often not because she had to, but because she genuinely wanted to know how I was doing. She celebrated my accomplishments, worried when I was overwhelmed, and encouraged me to pursue opportunities like Digital NEST because she knew they would help me grow.
Rose was the person I could go to for everything. Whenever I felt lost, confused, or unsure about a decision, she always made space for me. She met me where I was with honesty, kindness, and encouragement. She pushed me when I needed it and supported me when I felt unsure. She helped me figure out who I wanted to be, not just as a student or future professional, but as a human being.
Losing her has been incredibly hard. There are still moments when I instinctively reach for my phone, wanting to send her an update or ask for her advice. Even though she is no longer here, her guidance continues to shape the choices I make and the way I carry myself in the world. I know I am only one of many people who carry a piece of her wisdom with them every day.
I am grateful for every conversation, every lesson, every laugh, and every moment she invested in me. Rose changed the direction of my life, and I will carry her influence with me always.
-Elsa Tamayo
Member Services
Nonprofit Connection Santa Cruz County