Alumna Shines in Talent Acquisition Role

Managing human capital and leadership, ethics and organizational sustainability (LEO) alumna Caitlin Lewis ‘22 is making an impact post-graduation as talent acquisition coordinator at Xavier Creative House (XCH), a healthcare creative agency founded by alumna and CEO Sunny White ’09 (MBA).

In her role at XCH, Lewis works with leadership and hiring managers in the recruiting process, and also contributes to important HR programs and sustainability initiatives, ultimately contributing to XCH’s path of becoming a Certified B Corporation.

In September 2020, the company introduced a 2050 Sustainability Commitment, which Lewis has played a vital role in implementing. The sustainability commitment includes offsetting XCH’s carbon footprint, promoting a culture of mutual respect, engaging diversity suppliers and prioritizing wellness for the team, all topics that are important to Lewis.

“I am fortunate to work for a company that integrates sustainability as part of its business practices, and I am honored to take part in different sustainability initiatives that we are trying to achieve. I love how we can collaborate and make sustainable decisions that consider the triple bottom line of people, profit and planet,” says Lewis.

Lewis credits her role at XCH to the experience she was able to gain at Saint Joseph’s University. Not only was she a Hawk Host and member of the Society for Human Resource Management on campus, but she also gained professional experience through a co-op with insurance company USLI, as well as an internship with Data Recognition Corporation, a service firm specializing in test and survey administration and processing.

“Recent graduates don’t often land positions in recruitment. It’s a testament to Caitlin’s tenacity while in college to pursue experiences that set her up for success,” says Trish Shafer, executive director of the career center.

Lewis’ resume impressed XCH CEO Sunny White ’09 (MBA), who Lewis notes has been a driving force in her personal and professional development.

“I was immediately struck by Caitlin’s composure in her final interview,” says White. What stood out in her responses was positivity, a top requirement for our employees. There was also obvious intellect that shone through as confidence in the way Caitlin presented herself in the meeting with me and throughout the hiring process. She has been an exemplary employee adding much-needed support to our company.”

Lewis’ knowledge of human resources, developed through her Saint Joseph’s capstone course, has given her perspective as she begins her career in the field. Her biggest takeaway from the capstone experience? People tend to thrive more when their values align with a company’s values, and will be more passionate about their work as a result.

Already, a more diverse and engaged talent pool has been brought into XCH, something she hopes to continue to play a part in over the coming years.

“As the first full-time HR associate on my team, I have watched Caitlin fearlessly jump into her role. She takes initiative and is willing to help define and build out the HR functions to keep up with our rapid growth,” says Jennifer Blossom Beddingfield, XCH’s director of HR, learning and development.

Lewis’ favorite part of the role so far? “I love being part of that first interaction. I want to be able to set the tone up front, and know as much as I can about someone’s background so I can discover what their best fit is.”

So far, Lewis has found hers.