For the last ten years I have worked for the City of Columbia. Last fall, I took on a new role as Manager of the Office of Neighborhood Services, made up of staff from six existing departments to work on strengthening residential life.  My husband, Bruce, is a Columbia fire fighter and we are expecting our first baby in September.

What do you think are the biggest challenges for professional women today?  Time management! There is always more to do than time to get it all done. There is a never-ending need to prioritize and review that list of what to do next.  I generally believe that women have great opportunities and earn great respect and we need to get past any disadvantages we may think we have.

What is something you wish you could change about your self?  I always hope for more energy and an always-positive attitude about the world.  I don’t believe I am a negative person, but I think optimism, friendliness and enthusiasm are wonderful traits that can always be improved upon.

Name one thing not many people know about you.  My college degrees are in Agricultural Education, so I took some interesting classes at MU: welding, shop and gas engines.  Don’t ask me for any mechanical or construction help though; most of what I learned has been long forgotten!

What is the best business advice you’ve ever received?  “Don’t surprise your friends” – that was a gem shared by Wally Pfeffer.  It points out the importance of good communication.

How would you describe your leadership style?  I’m pretty hands-off.  I believe that if people understand their role and have the knowledge to do their job that I should get out of their way and let them succeed.  I don’t like to be micro-managed, so I want to follow the Golden Rule.  I also believe if a task is delegated I should stay out of the way!

Has your career path held surprises along the way?  Yes! My first two jobs were in the agricultural field.  I applied for a job with the City of Columbia at the suggestion of a friend and I have enjoyed my 10 years here.  I miss the people in the agricultural family in Missouri but the career change has been very rewarding.

What do you do to relax?  Last year I took up vegetable gardening and I found that to be very rewarding.  It’s a great feeling to grow your own food! I also like to go on walks with our three dogs and quilt.

What is one personal goal you haven’t yet achieved?  I would really like to become a more polished public speaker. I have been active in Toastmasters for the last few years and that has been a great help to me but I want to continue to improve my skills.

What is your workplace pet peeve?  When one person’s high priority is low on my to-do list.  It’s hard to try to tell someone that a task will need to wait.

Who do you consider a career mentor and why?  Susie Oberdahlhoff was a co-worker of mine in my first job out of college and always gave me great advice.  Susie had a lot of energy, a great sense of humor, good rapport with people and an incredible work ethic.  She was a great example for me to follow and has been a friend ever since.

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