Judy Vaughan, CSJ, is the Founding Director of Alexandria House, where she lives and works. Founded in 1996, Alexandria House is a transitional residence and neighborhood center for women and children in need.  Judy has spent almost forty years in program development, administration, board collaboration and fund-raising for national and community-based organizations.  

Judy has received many awards including recognition as a “Woman of Justice” by NETWORK, as an “Outstanding Founder” at the National Philanthropy Day, and as a “Woman of the Year” by the Los Angeles County Commission for Women.  Both Alexandria House and Judy have received commendations from the City and County of Los Angeles.

Previously to her work in Los Angeles, Judy served as Project Coordinator for Women for Guatemala, a solidarity organization committed to raising awareness about human rights abuses in Guatemala and offering financial support for women’s efforts in Guatemala. In addition, Judy has served as a college educator in California, including being adjunct faculty in the Education Department at Mount St. Mary’s College. Throughout the years, Judy has co-facilitated over 100 “Multicultural Look at Racism” workshops throughout the United States.

Judy holds  a Ph.D. in Religious Social Ethics from the University of Chicago (1982), an M.A. in Sociology from San Diego State University (1971) and a B.A. in Sociology (Magna Cum Laude) from Mount St. Mary’s College (1968). 

Judy is a member of the Sisters of St. Joseph of Carondelet in Los Angeles and co-parents a twenty-six-year-old daughter. She identifies herself as an activist and is grateful daily for all the courageous and determined people in her life who have kept her faithful to the struggle for justice.

Speaker: Take Heart Now Series

Our Speakers left to right: Rabina, Atousa and Leah

By fostering a safe space for interfaith dialogue, we provide a pathway for future leaders in our communities to lead with empathy, respect, and understanding while empowering youth to find strength in their faith. Interfaith Youth Alliance equips youth with the tools necessary to make positive change in the local communities and future places of work.

Through providing leadership opportunities and educational forums, students learn about different cultures, beliefs, and traditions in experiential ways.

My name is Rabina and I am a Senior in High School. I am part of IYA and Sikhi Punjabi community. In my free time, I love to explore new places with friends and family, be with my dog, and try new foods. I am interested in going into policy and the social sciences where I hope to bring positive change.

My name is Atousa and I am a Senior in high school. I am a part of many amazing clubs and organizations including IYA, International Baccalaureate program, CZC, National Honors Society, and Spanish Honors Society. I am also a very athletic person, and my favorite hobbies are making puzzles with my mom, going fishing with my dad, and playing with my sister. When I grow up I want to be an aerospace engineer.

My name is Leah and I am a Junior in high school. I am involved in many amazing organizations, including the IYA, Student Government, and United Synagogue Youth. I love to ride horses, read books, and go on hikes with my three younger siblings. When I grow up I want to be a neuroscientist.

Speakers: Take Heart Now Stories