Welcome, Mara!

Mara Schell is a senior at Drake University, where she is pursuing undergraduate studies in Anthropology, Sociology, and Spanish. Originally from Oshkosh, Wisconsin, she enjoys reading, taking walks, and spending time with friends in her free time.

Although previously unfamiliar with GiGi’s Playhouse, a summer internship opportunity gave Mara the occasion to learn about us and she quickly became inspired by our mission to change the way the world views Down syndrome. She is passionate about supporting members of her community, and with GiGi’s located so close to campus, she is excited for the opportunity to contribute to its impactful work as a summer intern.

Mara’s first week included a Thursday evening in the GiGi’s Kitchen for Teens and Adults, followed by Fantastic Friends on Friday. As you can see from this photo, Brian was playing his role as court jester, which cracked up his buddy Joel. (Lucy wasn’t as amused and gave him the “side eye”.)

That’s their way of affectionately saying, “Welcome, Mara! We hope you like it here.”

And we hope so, too!