February 26, 2018
Ms. Ling DeBellis was adopted from Guiping, China in 2001 and has an undiagnosed neuromuscular condition. She’s a life long patient at Gillette Children’s Specialty Healthcare in St. Paul. She attends MPA and lives in North Oaks with her family. This year, Ms. DeBellis is a member of the Young Women’s Initiative Cabinet of MN to advocate for a better Minnesota where all women have the opportunity to thrive.
We asked Ling some questions so you could get to know her before hearing her speak at MPA Talks on March 13! Take a look!
Who inspires you to be better and how?
My parents. My friends. My teachers. My community. The world. Their courage in me inspires everything I do. They care about me and teach me and trust me, so it’s my duty to show them how much I appreciate their endless dedication by aspiring to change the world.
What do you believe will be the greatest challenge our current students will face in their lifetimes and how do you see MPA equipping them to face that challenge?
Our generation is influenced too much by what we SHOULD be and not what we ARE. Our generation is driven by expectations, everywhere from school to social circles. We can no longer be sheep. I think MPA gives us space to find and explore our own passions. We don’t have to be “manufactured,” instead, we’re told we can be “authentic.” Without that, I wouldn’t be who I am today.
We ask our students to dream big and do right. Do you feel that call to action is important to the future of our society and if so, why?
Absolutely! Every day we are called to action, and “Dream Big. Do Right.” is a perfect representation of that. It’s inspirational to be in a world that so highly values independent thinkers and problem-solvers. It doesn’t matter who you are in society, what matters is how you can make it better.
What do you wish you knew more about?
Nuclear physics–it’s the backup plan should the biological sciences turn out to be a drag. As a scientist at heart, I’ve always been fascinated by diseases and microbes. It’s no surprise that my dream career is a medical researcher (dual M.D./Ph.D) at the CDC. But, like I said, nuclear physics, should I change my mind.
Where is the most interesting place you have been?
China [heritage trip] in 2009. I recently did an art series based on some photographs from the trip. Using a creative and expressive medium really helped uncover what that trip meant to me. It’s inexplicably spiritual.
What is the most heartwarming thing you have ever seen?
Mr. Thomsen’s annual song and campaign “Save the Ducks!” It encourages students to save ducks that nest in the Benz Courtyard in the spring, otherwise they’ll die. Also the new favorites are Mr. T’s “Captain Recycle vs. Dr. Litter” skits. Such a good way to promote taking care of nature and the environment.
Join us for the fourth annual MPA Talks on Tuesday, March 13, 2018, featuring Dr. White, faculty member Hannah Sullivan, and student Ling DeBellis! This event is designed to bring us together to gain new perspectives and be inspired. The reception and hors d’oeuvres will begin in the Gallery at 5 PM, followed by the featured speakers’ presentations from 6-7 PM. No RSVP is required and Middle and Upper School students are welcome! Panther Club/Den and dinner will be available for students through grade six as well. Reserve childcare and direct any questions you may have to mpatalks@moundsparkacademy.org.
