Meet Nanette Perez

 From defending literary freedom at the American Library Association to caring for people as a Registered Nurse, this powerhouse seamlessly balances motherhood with fierce bocce ball competitions, bar trivia, and mixed tape showdowns. A fashionista and fitness devotee who creates culinary homemade masterpieces that even her teen loves, she's redefining second-act career transformations.

Q+A 

What inspires you?

Outside of common influences like fashion, art, movies, and music, I find inspiration in witnessing people's enthusiasm for their personal passions. It’s quite moving to observe someone speaking animatedly about what truly excites them—whether it's stereo equipment, crafting, beer/liquor/wine/cocktails, or nerdy board games. Their excitement serves as a powerful reminder for me to seek and explore activities and interests that resonate with my own sense of curiosity and purpose.

What makes you laugh?

Irony with a hint of self-deprecation.

Favorite word?

As of late…sprezzatura. 

Who helped get you here?

The list is long, but I will focus on the top three (with a special shoutout):

1)    My late, great mentor, Judith F. Krug, the founder of the ALA Office for Intellectual Freedom and the Freedom to Read Foundation. Judy—to me, as she doesn’t let just anyone call her that—was the adult I desperately needed in my early twenties. She saw my potential when I didn’t have the ability to see that in myself, and as such, pushed me in the way I needed to be pushed. All this AND she was such a powerhouse in the library profession!

2)    My late husband, Chris Rhodes. Not only was he the love of my life, but we supported each other’s endeavors and encouraged growth. Caring for him during his brief illness also solidified my desire to become a nurse; and

3)   My son, Avery. A surly teen he may be, but we have been through a lot together from losing his father/my husband to navigating his childhood cancer. He has taught me what it means to have your heart living outside you. Through every challenge—the devastating grief of becoming a widow, the terrifying journey through his cancer treatment, and now the everyday trials of raising a teenager—Avery has been my anchor and my purpose.

And speaking of anchors, special shoutout to Avi Saiger for his unwavering support!

Tell us about a time you surprised yourself

The first time I took a beat before reacting to something that would typically enrage me and cause me to go berserk. It was like WHOA! This is what people mean when they say you have power in choice. Perception isn’t always reality. I get it now!