Rose Zaloom Returns to Utica to Help Tell RCIL’s Story as New Grants Writer

For Rose Zaloom, words have always held power. Whether crafting scholarly essays, creative fiction, or grant proposals, she sees writing as a way to connect, advocate, and inspire. Now, as the new Grants Writer at the Resource Center for Independent Living (RCIL), Rose is using her talents to help tell the story of an organization deeply rooted in community impact.

A lifelong Utican, Rose’s journey began at T.R. Proctor High School and continued at Utica College, where she earned her B.A. in English Literature and Language. Her academic path then led her to Rochester, NY, where she pursued and completed a Ph.D. in English Literature at the University of Rochester. But despite her time away, Utica always called her back.

“I’m excited to be in a role that can make such a positive impact on this community,” Rose says. “RCIL does such important work, and I loved the idea of being a part of that mission.”

Rose joined RCIL on September 15, 2025, stepping into the newly created position, Grants Writer. As Grants Writer, she’s responsible for crafting compelling proposals that secure funding for RCIL’s wide range of services. It’s a challenge she embraces wholeheartedly.

“There’s no shortage of stories here,” she explains. “RCIL touches so many lives, and I want the words I write to reflect that. Every word is an opportunity to tell RCIL’s story.”

Her passion for storytelling is evident in her past accomplishments. Rose has published both creative and scholarly work, and she recently delivered a keynote address at a joint conference hosted by the NYS College English Association and Pennsylvania College English Association. During her time as a Content Writer for the Friends of the Rosamond Gifford Zoo, she revived the organization’s blog, spotlighting wildlife conservation and forming unforgettable bonds with the zoo’s animal residents—from tarantulas to twin elephant calves.

Still, Rose sees her current role as a new frontier. “The Grants Writer is a new role at RCIL, so I am still in the process of identifying the most pressing challenges and how to face them” she says. But she knows that “it’s always a challenge to make sure the ideas in your head will be communicated accurately to your readers.”

Rose also praises the welcoming environment at RCIL. “It’s always hard to be the new hire, but everyone here has made it easier. People are generous with their knowledge and truly passionate about what they do.”

Outside of work, Rose’s creativity and energy continue to shine. She plays trombone in several local bands, enjoys tennis and the outdoors, and finds time for theatre, reading, and creative writing.

As she settles into her role, Rose is eager to see what lies ahead. “I can’t wait to see what sorts of opportunities for accomplishments are in store at RCIL,” she says.

With her pen in hand and purpose in mind, Rose Zaloom is ready to help RCIL write its next chapter.