Merhawi Wells-Bogue

What inspires or motivates you in your role at HMS/HSDM?
As a Lead AV Technical Specialist, I am inspired every day by witnessing students, faculty, and staff as they learn, grow, and challenge themselves. Assisting faculty and students by resolving technical issues that are critical to their teaching process motivates me to go above and beyond. The satisfaction of seeing everything run smoothly and knowing I played a part in that success is deeply fulfilling.

In what ways do you feel you contribute to the Harvard community?
In my role as a Lead AV Technician, I work closely with faculty, staff, and students, contributing my technical expertise to ensure that they are equipped with the right tools and solutions for their technological needs. My contribution lies in being a reliable resource, ensuring seamless operation during their lectures, events, or ceremonies.

What are you most proud of about your work at HMS/HSDM?
One of the accomplishments I'm most proud of is leading the AV operations for major events like HMS graduation and the White Coat Ceremony. These events require a high level of technical precision and come with significant pressure. Over time, I've learned to manage this pressure, much like a surgeon in a critical operation, staying calm and focused to ensure everything runs smoothly.

What is the significance of the object you brought with you to the photo shoot?
The photo I brought is of my parents, Patricia Wells and Gary Bogue. My sisters and I were separated from our biological parents during the Eritrean-Ethiopian War in 2000, which left many children orphaned. Patricia and Gary adopted my sisters and me from Ethiopia after the war. They had already adopted three siblings from Ethiopia before us. Coming to America from a war-torn country changed our lives forever. I want to give a heartfelt shoutout to my parents for their kindness and humanity. I love them both deeply and will forever be grateful for the life they have given us.