Influencer of the Week: Suzie Marrotte, Holy Family Catholic School

Suzie Marrotte serves as the digital media and communications coordinator for Holy Family Catholic School. As a parent of three children who attend, Marrotte enjoys being able to share her talents with their school. Principal Sister Dorothy Sayers nominated Marrotte for her contributions to the school as both a parent and valuable staff member. 

What do you love most about your school?

There are three things. No. 1, I love that the school is an extension of the parish. No. 2, I love Sister Dorothy Sayers, M.P.F. who is our principal, along with all of our staff. No. 3, I love the families of the school.

First, I love that Holy Family Catholic School is an extension of the Holy Family Parish. The parish was established in the mid-1970s, and the school grew out of the parish, opening in 1996. We are fortunate to be part of all the wonderful things the parish does for the community; it offers our students and families so many opportunities to grow. Second, our Principal, Sister Dorothy Sayers, M.P.F. is amazing! Her talents and compassion are apparent to everyone. I knew how wonderful she was before starting my position at the school. While working beside her, I am continually exposed to her energy, drive and passion for our children and school. She is dynamic, highly intelligent, compassionate, and has a fun sense of humor and a lovely personality. In short, to know her is to love her. This leads us to our staff – wonderful, caring individuals who work at the school with the same mission. It’s harmonious. Third, Holy Family’s families make our school beyond spectacular! The amount of love and effort our parents put forth in all areas, volunteering, events and everything we do. Our parents have a wide variety of careers, talents and resources which they graciously share with their time. The families of Holy Family make the school phenomenal.

What’s your favorite part of your job?

My favorite part of this position is being able to apply my education and previous marketing and public relations experience to the school my children attend. It is so fulfilling to direct my efforts to a wonderful cause.

What made you want to take on this job?

After all my children were enrolled in Holy Family, the position became open. As I read the description of the position, the similarities with my education and experience made it too good to be true. The position allows me to be close to my children while using my skill set and work with wonderful people to educate and inspire children.

What motivates you and pushes you to do your best?

Motivation is found in everyone I encounter. People are amazing. My husband and family continually motivate me to be a better mother, a better wife, a better person. I believe individuals have so much more potential than they are aware of. I try to tap into what I need to do to make myself better. I fear laziness — to me, laziness is a disease and very selfish. Always try to move forward, no matter how difficult it may seem. It is rewarding to know when you have given your all and tried your best, regardless of the outcome.

What’s the nicest thing a student or faculty member has done for you?

Our students, faculty and families are always so gracious, and they show their gratitude in many ways. I once received an anonymous handwritten note addressed to me that stated, “Thank you so much for all you do for our school; you are truly appreciated.” Such a simple act of kindness; it was genuine and beautiful.

What is the coolest place you have visited and why?

I love the beach, so it is a tie between Long Boat Key and Destin. They both offer the most amazing white-sand beaches, emerald-green water and a charming, slower-paced, less-traveled atmosphere — paradise!

If you could have any superpower, what would it be and why?

I have a husband and three children — ages 11, 10 and 6 — so naturally there is a lot of housework and laundry. I would love to be able to have my house spotless and laundry done “on demand.” This would leave me free to spend more quality time with them.

Do you have any pets? What kind, and what are their names?

Yes, we have a cat. He is a Maine Coon, which is the largest breed of cats. His name is Little One. He’s 12 years old; we have had him since before we had children. We also have a white rabbit named Snowball and two goldfish, Pac-Man and Goldie — the children won them from the Southwest Fall Festival two years ago.

If you could see any musician, band or artist live, who would it be and why?

I would love to see Ludwig van Beethoven or Frédéric Chopin live. I think they are some of the most brilliant musicians. They have proven their contributions to music, art and culture, which are unmatched and have stood the test of time.

What is the best advice you’ve been given, or your favorite mantra or quote to live by?

Try not to waste your energy on being upset with a situation, person or yourself. It’s productive to take time to reflect, but then move forward and use that energy to seek solutions and ways to improve. Changing your attitude and how your energy is directed can dramatically change your life and those around you. You don’t want to be the individual who constantly has complaints and problems. It is much more rewarding if you are the one bringing solutions and ideas.

What are some of your favorite things to do in your free time?

I love running and working out. I enjoy spending time with my husband and three children — our favorite thing to do together is family pool parties simply swimming, grilling out and enjoying each other.