As a new arrival in LA, I went to the Olympics Organizing Committee headquarters and offered my knowledge of five languages. I told them I’d love to be involved and help in this international event— welcoming the world to Los Angeles, my recently adopted new home. There was so much to do, my future supervisor asked me which of the many open jobs in language services or international relations I would you like.
There weren’t that many people who had my international background. I initially got involved as a volunteer and then transitioned to full-time roles, which I held and for a couple of years. This was how I really started feeling a sense of belonging in California. And there’s a part of me that has remained a LosAngelena at heart for the rest of my life, even though I now live in Santa Fe, New Mexico.
Peter Ueberroth led this enormous undertaking. He was the leading head and heart in bringing everyone together and accomplishing a major victory. Peter Ueberroth had a strong vision of what our Los Angeles Olympic Organizing Committee (LAOOC) and Southern California could accomplish as hosts.
He personally interviewed and tested all the new hires who started any positions with the Committee. We would each stand up and say something about our backgrounds. That’s how he first learned that I was originally from Romania, which is relevant to the rest of the story.
Bill
Tell me a bit about Peter. Who is this man?
