There’s one staff member goes by an initial, which is synonymous with having all the answers to our questions. It’s V! Christina Verbarg, or V for short, has worn many hats over the years, first at the Rung boutique in Rock Hill and now at Rung for Women, where she’s been an official staff member for over four years.
She’s seen all of the ebbs and flows Rung has experienced and continues to provide an excellent foundation for the organization. Read more below to get to know more about V!
What do you like most about working at Rung?
I love working at Rung because it’s not just a job. I like knowing that what I’m doing has a direct, positive impact on the lives of others.
What has been your favorite project to work on?
It’s hard not to say that building a building was my favorite project. It’s probably tied between the building and finding the art for both buildings on our campus. Finding (mostly) local artists who identify as women and giving them a platform to share their work was so fun. Here’s a cool fact – Lauren Younge, whose painting is outside the Sacagawea Room, thought about quitting art when I contacted her. Getting to paint the piece for Rung reignited her love for painting and reinvigorated her career.
Who are your personal sheroes, women you look up to?
My mom. I am so fortunate to have my whole family, but my mom has always been my biggest supporter and has helped advocate for me when I haven’t been able to advocate for myself. I don’t think it was a conscious decision, but she always taught my siblings and me that our genders don’t define what we can accomplish. When she was in middle school, she wanted to run track, but there was no girls’ team at the time. She petitioned the school, and they allowed her to run on the boys’ team.
What do you like to do in your free time?
I love walking with my dog, Harper, and listening to music. I’m always looking for new music I haven’t heard before, so please share your favorites! I also like reading, spending time with family and friends, sewing, and, of course, riding my Peloton.
How have you grown since working at Rung? How haven’t I grown since working at Rung?
I’m not just being sarcastic saying that. Rung, in some iteration, has been on my resume since before I graduated college. Rung has celebrated some of the happiest personal triumphs of my life and was there to help lift me up during my worst. Coming to work here daily surrounded by this incredible team is one of the greatest honors of my life.
Rung is fortunate to have V on our team! Thanks, girl, for everything that you do!