The New Jersey African American Chamber of Commerce recently recruited Oak Knoll Alumna Desire Mitchell ’23 for her youthful perspective. She appeared as the youngest member of a panel presentation and discussion entitled “Can We Talk: What Do You Really Know About Generational Diversity?” The presentation enlisted the viewpoints of a Baby Boomer, a Gen X, a Millennial, and a Gen Z, represented by Mitchell. 

For the first time in history, the United States has four generations in the workplace. The panelists discussed this dynamic and delved into the best methods to manage generational differences at work, including attracting, motivating, retaining, and rewarding employees from all four generational groups. Not surprisingly, older generations value job security, while younger generations value flexibility and purpose-driven work. 

Mitchell is certainly a fine example of a purpose-driven individual. She has just completed her freshman year at New York University, pursuing a major in Food and Nutrition Science and Biology on a pre-med track. She is also a licensed EMT and plans to spend her summer volunteering as a New York City emergency responder. She will also be working with the Golden Spoons program, assisting the nurses and dieticians with feedings and ensuring that patients are matched with appropriate nutrition.

While at Oak Knoll, Mitchell was awarded for her service work. During her high school tenure, she showcased her diverse talents as a member of the Varsity Tennis and Swimming teams, co-editor of the yearbook, and president of the Black Scholars student club. 

Concurrently, she volunteered at the Long Hill Rescue Squad as a certified emergency medical technician and holds lifeguard and swimming instructor certifications. Her dedication to service extends to organizations like the Greater Union County Chapter of Jack and Jill of America, Inc., where she served as the immediate past teen chapter Vice President. Mitchell is a lifetime member of the Girl Scouts and indulges her passion for baking and cooking. 

She cherishes her time at Oak Knoll, which began in grade six, especially the holiday traditions. “I think one of my favorite Oak Knoll traditions is Christmas,” she related. “Not being there for the holiday and seeing the activities, the Christmas tree lighting and the advent calendar made me sad this past winter. But I was so happy to follow on social media and see that everyone is still enjoying the season.”

She cites Upper School Science Teacher Rebecca McNany as inspiration to pursue her medical career at NYU. “Ms. McNanny went to NYU for undergraduate and graduate school, and she was my teacher for Honors Biology junior year and AP Environmental Science senior year. She gave me so much guidance and wrote my recommendation letter for college.” 

She hopes to live a life dedicated to health care, which aligns with her strong sense of purpose and commitment to service.

“I’ve always wanted to go to medical school and use this knowledge that I’ll build off of with the food nutrition studies and combine the two. I see myself working within an institution, whether a larger hospital system or possibly expanding or working with other physicians to have a private practice. I want to be a doctor who looks at the patient holistically and does not just treat patients for a specialty.”

We wish her all the best on her fascinating career track and throughout her remaining years at NYU.