Originally from Kansas City, MO, I came to Columbia in 1991 and earned my bachelor’s and master’s degrees in Journalism from MU. I then worked at MU in several different positions which allowed me to work with wonderful colleagues and students, and allowed me to give back to the university and community I know and love. Most recently, I served as the Coordinator of Diversity Programs for the MU Trulaske College of Business, and though it was extremely hard to leave, I returned to school this past May to pursue nursing via MU’s 15-month Accelerated BSN program!

What do you think are the biggest challenges for professional women today? I think professional women continue to work hard to achieve balance professionally and personally, and among the increasing variety of additional responsibilities and interests we all have. Women today prove not only that you can have and do it all, but also that “all” is as different and unique as the individual experiencing it.

What is something you wish you could change about your self? I wish I had an inner chef yearning to express herself, but “she” simply doesn’t exist. I never say “never” but I’ll never have my own cooking show.

Name one thing not many people know about you. I had 8 years of piano lessons as a child and could play a variety of classical sonatas and concertos. Most people are unaware of this because, today, I can only play a couple bars of Lionel Richie’s “Say You, Say Me”.

What is the best business advice you’ve ever received? Half-joking, my father always said, “There’s no free lunch in America.” My parents truly embraced the “American Dream”, worked extremely hard for their success, and expected nothing. No one can ever take that from them – that is their legacy.

How would you describe your leadership style? Team-oriented; I like to make suggestions and “open the floor” for other suggestions and discussion, and try to build consensus when possible.

Has your career path held surprises along the way? Absolutely. My career path has helped me to realize I can find professional contentment and reward in a variety of careers and environments; and “transferable skills” truly transcend industries and professions!

What do you do to relax? I like to run, and I love to travel. I also indulge in some reality television occasionally…

What is one personal goal you haven’t yet achieved? I would really like to take piano lessons and be able to play again.

What is your workplace pet peeve? Not pitching in, in the little ways – such as filling up the printer paper before it’s out, putting new staples in the empty stapler, and emptying the clogged 3-hole punch. Maintaining simple things like this indirectly communicates your support to colleagues and can contribute significantly to a smooth-running office; and perhaps even avert undue stress!

Who do you consider a career mentor and why? Mary Beth Marrs; Assistant Dean, Undergraduate Programs and Strategic Initiatives for the MU Trulaske College of Business. She is a genuinely passionate and caring leader who challenges and inspires her colleagues and students to work hard and bring their best in achieving every goal they set their sights on.

What is your dream job? Honestly, whatever the Good Lord allows me to do, with another day in this amazing life…I’m “livin’ the dream”!

What do you hope to be doing in 10 years – personally and professionally? Retired and traveling the world; but, I’ll settle for working in a specialized area of nursing and raising a family, right here in Columbia.

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