Hometown: Sherman, IL

Current Location: Chatham, IL

Can you tell us a bit about your background and what inspired you to pursue your current career path?

I was active duty Air Force from 2009 - 2013. My specialty was logistics. I was based in England, then transferred to Georgia. When I separated from the military, I completed my BA in English in 2014 and began working as a secretary for a military medical administrator. That work led me to obtaining a master's degree in healthcare administration, and after my oldest son had a significant medical event, I moved to New Jersey and worked at a nonprofit healthcare association. In 2017, I moved back to Illinois to live near family. I worked at the Illinois Student Assistance Commission as a Program Coordinator and Web Specialist, where I would keep the website up-to-date, send out mass communications, and respond to all emails from students all over the state regarding state financial aid including scholarships and grants. It became very clear to me that I wanted to work primarily in public service and higher education. This led to my decision to complete the online Master of Public Administration program at UIS, graduating in December 2021. In 2022, I began working at UIS as the Business Manager for the Division of Advancement. I had a couple of excellent mentors that helped me develop my skills and I was brought into the leadership team. In 2023, I was promoted to Executive Policy Advisor and in 2024 to Director of Advancement Operations. I have always loved to learn, and I love that I work at a place encourages learning at all stages of life. I will always strive to learn and grow.

Who or what has been your biggest influence or mentor in your journey?

I have been influenced both by those who were being an excellent example of who I wanted to be and those that were the opposite. Every experience is an opportunity to learn. I have been shown the most amazing compassion and have been taught by some truly amazing leaders.

What are your goals and aspirations for the future?

I want to continue to learn and gain experience and responsibility in higher education and nonprofit organizations. I plan to complete a doctoral program and hope to become a higher education instructor within the next ten years.

What advice would you give to others who are looking to advance and make a difference in their field?

Seek knowledge. If you don't know how something works or why something is done a certain way, look it up. Don't rely on what has always been done, but seek out how to do things better. Always remember in everything you do that people matter.

What do you enjoy doing in your free time that helps you stay inspired and motivated?

I have a hobby of starting new hobbies and a collection of collections. I enjoy building large Lego sets, reading, needlepoint, diamond painting, sewing, video games, and so many things, though I still haven't figured out the secret to having time for all of them.

Is there anything else you would like to share with us?

My professional life has had a slower progression than some. I did not have the average college experience. I attended Lincoln Land for a bit and then joined the military. I completed all of my college degrees online, so that I could work and take care of my kids. I was a foster parent and worked two jobs while completing my UIS graduate degree. I am fighting my own disabilities while trying to help my kids manage theirs. I wouldn't change any of it, because all of my experiences have shaped who I am, and I absolutely love what I do and where I see my future going. My life has taught me that people matter. Compassion matters. Kindness matters.