
Beryl Radcliff Small ’79
Software Developer
Although independent thinking was required at home, it was re-enforced at Dominican. Independent thinking makes leaders, and I believe that all of my leadership skills were taught and cultivated by DHS.
Although independent thinking was required at home, it was re-enforced at Dominican. Independent thinking makes leaders, and I believe that all of my leadership skills were taught and cultivated by DHS.
A Dominican graduate values life-long learning and pursues excellence, not only as an end but to serve our community. I have been honored to coordinate the Washington D.C. chapter where I am able to see our graduates always learning and striving for excellence for their community and country. It is a blessing to be able to meet current Dominican students when they travel to Washington D.C. for Close-Up and March for Life. The Dominican community stays steadfast and strong in their ways as we continue to support each other.
At Dominican High I learned that it was OK to be a strong woman, not afraid to express thoughts, ideas, and opinions. That has been so important in my social justice work which demands that I be an advocate for justice with and for marginalized people even when – and especially when – there are so many dissenting voices trying to drown out the voices of those crying out for equity and belonging.
Be present in the present. It is so easy to look ahead and be consumed with what is next. While you can plan and prepare, high school is such an amazing time in your life, so be there for it. Be a part of the things you are passionate about, discover what you enjoy learning, and make time for fun. Know that things can always change. I have had so many different twists and turns throughout my career, many of which I could have never planned for or anticipated. It’s okay to go in a different direction or try something new.”
There are no short cuts. Do the work. Put in the time. Be a team player. Be a leader, but also a team builder. Keep the Dominican ‘girl’ in your heart and try not to stop having fun in the process!
Cherish each day at Dominican, for those few short years will continue to impact your entire future! The motto, Veritas, has been my guiding star, reinforced by the curriculum and lessons of love from fabulous faculty.
I was very involved in extracurricular activities at Dominican and held officer positions as well. Having that experience early in life has definitely helped me in my career now. As an HR Manager, I am in a position to provide a great onboarding process for any new hires coming to our company, and I also oversee all training programs. Having my leadership roles at Dominican has given me a head start to my career now.
The faith formation at Dominican was one of the most influential aspects in my ministry as a Catholic artist, composer, and music director. In grammar school, I learned my prayers; but, at Dominican, I learned to pray. Celebrations of the Mass were some of my greatest memories. Dominican was a safe place to be proudly Catholic, and there was comfort with living the truth of the Gospel among hundreds of young women.
My Dominican education has instilled in me a spirit of excellence and motivation to strive as far as I can within my field. It has allowed me to do many things in my career where both faith and service intersect. Because of Dominican, I have been able to walk boldly in the face of adversity and know that I can do anything I put my mind to.