Q: Tell us about yourself.
A: Hi there! My name is Emma, I am a passionate community member with a love for civic engagement, performing arts, and really any experience that gathers community. In my role at Folkways, I get to ensure that our community programs are able to sustain for years to come. I am passionate about our work at Folkways because of our impact on aiding in workforce retention, local food access, small business growth, and arts vibrancy in Fargo-Moorhead.
My love for community started in high school after I attended TEDxYouth@ Fargo, and following my graduation from the University of Northern Colorado in 2020, I chose to move back to Fargo to work at TEDxFargo full-time after three years of working as an intern/remote. While at school in Colorado I would watch Folkways events from afar, eager for the day I could attend Christkindlmarkt, or when summer break would eventually bring me back for the Red River Market. Now, I am grateful to be a part of creating the experience that ultimately played a role in attracting me back to the region.
When I’m not at work you can typically find me out and about in Fargo with my partner Lane, and our two pups Hati and Otis. I’m a fan of a good project and love to crochet, garden, read—you name it!
Q: Who is someone who has been influential in your journey?
A: My little sisters—Eliza and Alicia! While we’re technically part of the same generation, Gen Z, I learn so much from them and the way they interact with the world. They are more emotionally aware and honest than I ever was at their age. With a seven- and nine-year age gap between us, I feel like they constantly teach me about what the next generation has to offer.
Q: What drives you?
A: I am driven by community and people. As an extension of that, I am driven to help people feel a part of our community. I feel quite a bit of fulfillment from helping connect someone to an event, club, or person. Additionally, I’m motivated by big ideas. An innovator at heart, I love to help make great ideas and projects happen.
Q: What do you think can be improved in our business community?
A: I think our community could benefit from being more honest in our feedback on projects and ideas. When we fail to provide constructive criticism, we inadvertently promote mediocrity—and I think we can all agree that we don’t want to exist in a mediocre community. Right? Can’t let that ego get in the way.
Q: Please tell us about a resource that has changed the way you view leadership.
A: “How I Built This” with Guy Raz, aside from my love of startups, this podcast taught me how to be a great listener. The host does a great job at allowing a founder to share their story and asking authentic questions that honor their experience.
Reminder that you can get free audiobooks from the Fargo Public Library with their Libby App!
Q: What are some important life lessons you have learned?
A: How important it is for you to show up and participate. It’s not weird to be the first person to ask to hang out, create an event, or start a conversation. Often times you are helping make those around you more comfortable. And if they think it’s weird, they likely have other things going on.
