Q: Tell us about yourself.
A: Born and raised in the Fargo-Moorhead area, I’ve been fortunate to call this vibrant community home for most of my life. After graduating high school, I pursued my business management and analytics degree at Grand Canyon University, earning my degree in 2022. Though I loved my time in Arizona, the pull of family and friends brought me back to the Fargo-Moorhead area after graduation.
Since returning, I’ve discovered my passion in the retail and e-commerce sector, currently serving as the E-Commerce Site Manager at SCHEELS. My role is dynamic and ever-evolving, offering new challenges and opportunities every day—something I truly enjoy.
Outside of work, you’ll often find me at Solid-core or enjoying a cup of matcha at one of the local coffee shops. I believe in balancing work with adventure, so I make it a priority to carve out time for travel. In the summer, I am always making regular trips to the lake to soak up as much time as possible by the water.
Q: Who are some people who have been influential in your journey?
A: My parents, Jeff and Jen, have been the most influential figures in my life, teaching me lessons in independence, kindness, strength, and the importance of being welcoming to others. They’ve always encouraged me to be my best self, creating an environment that nurtures creativity and opportunity. I frequently turn to them for professional and personal support and guidance. Their example inspires me to grow and embrace new challenges constantly.
Another key influence has been my late grandpa, Jack, an English teacher who sparked my love for reading and learning. He taught me to slow down and appreciate the moment, and his motto, “boredom is underrated,” reminds me to be present and engaged with the world around me. Despite living with Parkinson’s Disease, he always maintained a positive attitude and showed me how to give my best, no matter the circumstances. His influence continues to shape how I approach life.
Q: What drives you?
A: What drives me is the constant pursuit of being the best version of myself. I’m deeply committed to personal growth, and I believe that self-improvement is a continuous journey. What that looks like is always evolving—it could be pushing myself to learn new things, stepping outside of my comfort zone, or finding a balance between my professional and personal life. I’m driven by the desire to be the best I can be, and I’m always refining what that means along the way.
Q: What do you think can be improved in our business community?
A: One area for improvement in our business community is the continued expansion of workforce development programs. As the Fargo-Moorhead area continues to grow, we need to ensure there are enough skilled workers to meet the demands of expanding industries. Continuing to strengthen partnerships between businesses, educational institutions, and local organizations could help provide better training and career development opportunities, ensuring that our workforce is prepared for the future.
Q: What are some important life lessons you have learned?
A: One of the most important life lessons I’ve learned is that the challenging moments often lead to the most growth. When something feels horrible or overwhelming in the moment, it’s easy to think it’s a setback or a failure. However, looking back, I’ve realized that those tough experiences are often the very things that shape you into a stronger version of yourself. The struggles I thought would hold me back have turned out to be opportunities for growth, resilience, and learning. It’s a reminder that, sometimes, what seems like a setback can be the best thing to happen in the long run.
Q: Where do you see yourself in 10 years?
A: In 10 years, I see myself giving back to the community, continuing to grow professionally and personally, and staying connected to friends and family. I’m excited to keep learning, take on new career challenges, and travel, all while enjoying the moments with those I care about.
Q: What are you hoping to gain from the United Way 35 Under 35 Women’s Leadership Program?
A: Through the United Way 35 Under 35 Women’s Leadership Program, I’m excited to connect with a diverse group of incredibly talented women who each bring unique leadership skills and passions to the table. Without this opportunity, I likely wouldn’t have had the chance to meet and learn from such an inspiring group of individuals. I’m eager to connect with them on a deeper level, share experiences, and build relationships that will not only expand my network but also help me grow as a leader. I look forward to the personal and professional growth that will come from being part of this empowering program.
Q: Is there anything else you would like to share with the readers?
A: Thank you for reading about this year’s group of women. This program wouldn’t be possible without all of the support from our community, and we’re all extremely grateful!
