35 Under 35: Kailee Koenen, Pharmacy Quality Manager, Ucare

A: In a previous role, when I was a new manager, I had the opportunity to complete an Emerging Leaders Program. Through this program, I was able to dive into content related to the different styles of leadership, communication skills, and a focus on growth mindset. It also helped me better understand the important difference between managing and leading others and allowed me to further develop my self-reflection skills so I can work to continue to grow as a leader.

Q: What are some important life lessons you have learned?

A: You never truly know what someone else is facing so always lead with kindness; you may just be the difference they need that day. You will make a mistake (or multiple) at some point in your life, take the time to reflect on what happened, apologize when necessary, and learn how to approach differently in the future.

Q: What are some of your favorite things to do in our community?

A: Having young children, we like to try out the different indoor and outdoor playgrounds/experiences and as they get older, getting more involved in community activities. You can catch us at the zoo most Saturday mornings in the Spring-Fall months! We enjoy time spent at the downtown and West Fargo Red River Valley Farmer’s Markets, supporting our local businesses, and trying out different restaurants, bars/breweries, coffee shops, etc.

Q: Where do you see yourself in 10 years?

A: This is a question I always struggle with answering because while it’s important to have a vision and goal for the future (I’ve had many), I think it is equally important to also keep an open mind to opportunities that may come outside the scope of your vision. In 10 years, I hope to be involved in a community organization that I am passionate about, continuing to work for a company that invests in the community and its team members, and spending as much time with my family as possible.

Q: What are you hoping to gain from the United Way 35 Under 35 Women’s Leadership Program?

A: While I’m excited about the personal and professional growth I know I will gain from this program to be the best mom, wife, colleague, and leader to my team that I can be, I’m also hoping to become more connected to our community and create connections with other passionate and driven women in this group. My husband and I relocated back to the Fargo-Moorhead area two years ago and had two of our three children since moving so I haven’t invested as much time into finding ways to give back and contribute to the community as I would like and I look forward to learning more about the ways I am able to get more involved. I’m also excited to take the time to reinvest in myself through this program.