Las Vegas closes a chapter today, the closing of the iconic Mirage Hotel & Casino. A bitter sweet feeling and moment for me, as this property played an impactful role in my life and career.
Every time I walked through its doors, I am filled not nostalgia. Fresh out of college, the Mirage is where I found community, experience and started to find what my super powers were!
I had the incredible opportunity to be accepted into the company’s (then MGM Resorts) MAP program where for nearly a year I rolled up my sleeves and worked across various departments, positions and shifts!
Management Associate Program Day 1 circa early 2000s
Hello graveyard shift, those were a doozy! From front desk, to housekeeping, sales, operations and much more, it was an eye opening experience that showed me the importance of communications and customer service. Operating a property of thousands of hotel rooms and thousand of employees is no easy task and yet somehow because of the people, systems and customer service in place, we made it possible.
With women of impact at MGM Resorts. Amanda Voss, Stephanie Glanzer, Amy Huff
A home where I was also exposed and worked hand in hand with women in leadership positions that WOW looking back at that, was really eye opening for me. It’s so special to still be able to know these women and see how bright their stars continue to shine with the MGM Resorts family. A special shoutout in heaven to my mentor from college RIP- Kelly Ringelberg Kimble who was one of the first to open a door for me in the industry.
So glad the universe connected me to this amazing woman. I miss you Kelly Kimble.
Mirage was also where I first met the first Latinos in corporate America. Once upon a time I walked into Jaime Cruz’s office who also worked on property at the time and the rest as they say is history. If you know Jaime ask him to share with you that story! I then went on to meet Irene Bustamante Adams, also then with the company.I am so grateful that our paths continue to cross and we can collaborate in our work in the community.
Jaime Cruz thank you for inspiring me to dream bigger!
On a personal note, the Mirage paved a pathway to my becoming a United States Citizen where soon after I voted for the first time in my early 20’s!
It also played host to our wedding party nearly 9 years ago and served as backdrop to some of our fave wedding pictures. All you need is love!
I do ❤️ in front of The Beatles Love
Though I won’t be able to walk through the property doors anymore, the memories and people I will truly cherish forever!
Thank you Mirage and the thousands of employees for the impact you have made in the Las Vegas community.