Employee Spotlight: Molly VanDorick 

We’re thrilled to be spotlighting Molly VanDorick today, a Consultant at FMP. Molly hails from Bel Air, Maryland, and she earned a master’s degree in educational leadership and instructional technology from Towson University before spending several years as a teacher. Molly is also a member of FMP’s Sustainability Committee. Keep reading to learn more about Molly, her hobbies, her sustainability tips, and more! 

What do most people not know about you?

A lot of my friends and colleagues know that I love being in nature, and I strive to be outside as much as possible (one of my many reasons for joining the Sustainability Committee). Many people correlate nature with camping – but not me! As much as I enjoy being outside, I want to sleep in a bed at night with no bugs and have access to indoor plumbing! You will not find me on Survivor. 

When you’re not working, where can we find you? 

If the weather is cooperating, you’ll find me outside! The outdoors rejuvenates and grounds me. I love hiking, soccer, kayaking, gardening, or simply enjoying an outdoor meal. If the weather isn’t cooperating, I’m usually finding new ways to entertain my five- and three-year-old kids indoors. I’ve almost mastered the process and clean-ups of indoor painting.

What do you like the most about working at FMP? 

I’ve truly felt supported in my work from every level of FMP. The help and guidance I received while transitioning into a new career (after 10 years as a teacher) made—and continues to make—me feel comfortable asking questions and seeking feedback. Thanks to FMP’s support, I’ve grown in both technical and soft skills, which I apply directly to my client projects. FMP fosters a culture of learning and development, and I’m excited to continue exploring where that growth can take me. 

Describe FMP in three words. 

Collaborative. Resilient. Transformative. 

What is your favorite part of being on the Sustainability Committee? 

My favorite part is coming together with colleagues I don’t see regularly to focus on a concept we find important to our lives. Our committee members are committed and innovative in identifying activities that FMP can engage in to advocate for and support a healthier environment. The Sustainability Committee recognizes that our colleagues live in different environments and circumstances, which can mean that each person’s approach to sustainability will look unique. But even if only one person makes a small, positive step towards sustainability, that means we are successful in our work. I’ve personally learned new tips and tricks from fellow committee members that I’ve incorporated into my daily life.

What is one tip or practice you recommend to those starting their sustainability journeys? 

Start with one small change! Sustainability isn’t an all-or-nothing concept. When I began switching from plastic grocery bags to reusable ones, I often got to the checkout only to realize I had left my bags in the car. Eventually, the habit stuck, and now it’s part of my family’s routine. New habits take time to establish. Try identifying one sustainable action that fits into your lifestyle. Each time you successfully bring those bags into the grocery store, choose to condense your online orders into one order, or carpool to work, don’t forget to celebrate your win for the Earth! 

Zoe Nerantzis joined FMP as a Consultant in May 2021 and works with the National Science Foundation team by supporting NSF’s learning and development branch. Zoe is from Rockville, Maryland and can generally be found reading fantasy novels, working out in her basement, or rooting for the Washington Football team.