Q: Tell us about yourself.
A: Born and raised in Western ND, I have been a proud north sider in Fargo for 14 years. During the week, I work for NSF Great Plains I-Corps Hub as a recruiter traveling to our partner universities forming relationships and inviting researchers and entrepreneurs to our program. On the weekends, you can find me helping brides find their dream dress at Your Day By Nicole as a bridal stylist.
My time is best spent hanging out with friends and family, drinking Diet Coke and learning new skills and hobbies. This year’s so far include billiards and sewing.
Q: Who are some people who have been influential in your journey?
A: My former manager and now good friend, Anne Johnson, has been influential to me both personally and professionally. She is self-made, honest, and committed. She listens without judgment, advocates for others, and invites them along with her in her successes. She is a leader, mother, wife, and faithful friend. I admire Anne in all she does. Her love, kindness, and influence have changed me gently and for the better.
Q: What drives you?
A: I am motivated first by relationships and second by creating impact. I often say I can be happy at any job I find myself in as long as I enjoy the people I work with and can build strong, healthy relationships with them. As I interact with those around me, I am challenged by the question “Was it a healing thing to have been with me?” I’m driven by the understanding that the words I speak matter and that I can create impact both positively and negatively. At the end of the day, people are most important to me and how I treat and interact with them is a reflection of my character. The third thing that drives me? A Kia Sportage.
Q: What do you think can be improved in our business community?
A: Coming from my previous position at the Chamber of Commerce, my eyes have been opened to the topic of the workforce and the giant task our state has to improve it. Fargo-Moorhead and North Dakota in general is a great place to live with cost of living, quality of life, and people. I think our business community needs to continue to be competitive and conscious in attracting talent to our area. A person’s job is their livelihood, our businesses should strive to offer prosperous wages and benefits to their employees to ensure quality and retention.
