Off the Clock with Maria Wilson
Community Engagement Coordinator, Office of Community Engagement and Inclusion
Learn more about Maria Wilson's activities outside of work
What are your favorite Buffalo seasonal activities and/or festivals?
Kayaking at Ellicott Creek, walking through Delaware Park (specially Hoyt Lake) and hiking the Whirlpool State Park.
How long have you lived in Buffalo? What aspects of Buffalo attracted you here and/or encourage you to stay?
Around 12 years. What attracted me was all the parks you can visit, all the hiking trails and the beautiful Niagara Falls State Park. What encouraged me to stay are the short commutes everywhere, living in a big town with a small town feel, the community (the people around me are amazing!) and how much joy the sunny days bring.
What are you reading now, and why would you recommend it?
I am reading Remarkably Bright Creatures by Shelby Van Pelt. I just started it so I can only tell you why I chose to read it. We can find a connection where we least expect it, so when that happens, we need to be ready to welcome it!
What are you watching now, and why would you recommend it?
Since Irish singer-song writer Glen Hansard just passed tragically, I recommend watching all of his live concerts and presentations. His soul is a healer in more aspects than one.
What hobby do you enjoy? Why do you recommend it?
I love knitting, and for me is a form of mantra and meditation. It teaches you to take one stitch at a time. To go slow and to pay attention. It is worth trying!
What is your favorite mantra?
My fave mantra is: All that belongs to you, cannot be taken away from you. Be always thankful.
What lifts your mood?
The wiggling tail of my dog, Pearl.
What is a fun fact about yourself?
I have a million stories to tell :)