20 under 40: Suzy Powell Roos
Favorite quote or saying, why?
One of my favorite quotes that inspired me at a young age, and continues to do so today, is a paraphrase of a famous Vince Lombardi quote, “In pursuit of perfection, we may catch excellence.”
Below is the exact quote from Lombardi as a reference.
“Gentlemen, we are going to relentlessly chase perfection, knowing full well we will not catch it, because nothing is perfect. But we are going to relentlessly chase it, because in the process we will catch excellence. I am not remotely interested in just being good.” – Vince Lombardi
I like this quote because it appeals to the notion that even though you may be doing well, you can always do better. As an optimistic person, I always believe I can do a better job professionally and personally. It also challenges us to settle for nothing less than the most excellent version of ourselves.
Community or professional highlights:
If I had to pick just one … I am very proud to be associated with the people who have served on the various boards and clubs in our community, namely: Modesto Rotary, Great Valley Academy, Miracle League of Stanislaus County, and the Boys and Girls Clubs of Stanislaus County. The people who breathe life into these organizations are the real heroes of our community.
Your life changed when:
Professionally: when I made my first U.S. Olympic team at age 19.
Personally: when my son was born.
What do you want people to know most about you?
Ha! That’s a tough question! I have a deep faith in God and would be lost without his help on a daily basis.
What do you like most about living here?
Family and friends are the highlight of living in this area for me. Additionally, Modesto is close enough to other great California amenities (beach, mountains, wine country, large cities) that getting away is easy and makes life in the flatlands a much better experience.
Why is community involvement important?
Community involvement is important because in giving we receive. Some people will read that as only giving to get; however, it has more to do with the internal transformation that takes place when you put others above yourself. We grow and learn from others, particularly when we put their needs ahead of our own.
Age: 39
Occupation: As of nine months ago, I am raising my son at home full time. I am still active in the sports world, coaching and training athletes.
This story was originally published August 21, 2016 at 6:04 AM with the headline "20 under 40: Suzy Powell Roos."