Q: Tell us about yourself.
A: I was born and raised in Fargo and have always considered it home even when I haven’t lived here. I went to Concordia College for undergrad where I earned a degree in economics and then I went on to Southern College of Optometry in Memphis, TN. I currently work at Eyes on Broadway as an optometrist and love it! From an early age, I knew I wanted to be an eye doctor because mine made a significant impact on my life, and I wanted to help people in the same way. I enjoy helping people and making connections with my patients. In my free time, I enjoy spending time with my family and friends, creating sewing and quilting projects, and curling at the FM Curling Club. You can also find me cheering on the Bison at almost all home football and basketball games.
Q: Who are some people who have been influential in your journey?
A: My family has been some of the most influential people in my life. They have always believed in me and helped me achieve my goals no matter how big or small. Professionally, my biggest influence has been my optometrist growing up. He diagnosed and helped treat a binocular eye condition I didn’t even know I had, which is why I decided to become an optometrist. Daily, I’m inspired by my patients. Their stories motivate me to do more and be my best for them.
Q: What drives you?
A: I have an internal desire to do my best in anything that I do, pushing me to be the best I can be. If I can help others in the process, that’s even better!
Q: Tell us about a professional development experience that has changed the way you view leadership.
A: Back in October, the FMWF Chamber of Commerce put on a Young Professionals Summit I attended. During that summit, I was able to take part in sessions related to having critical conversations, goal setting, and community involvement; all of which gave me bits of information on how to better lead by example and take small steps for improvement in myself or within my workplace.
Q: What are some important life lessons you have learned?
A: If you want something, go for it. It might be hard, but if you achieve it, all the work will be worth it. If you don’t, you will learn something in the process.
Q: Where do you see yourself in 10 years?
A: This is always a tricky question to answer, but I hope to be happy, healthy, and surrounded by a good support system of family and friends. I also see myself living out my calling as an optometrist at home here in Fargo.
Q: What are you hoping to gain from the United Way 35 Under 35 Women’s Leadership Program?
A: I hope to gain a strong network of women who I can look to for both professional guidance and friendship. I also hope to gain effectiveness and confidence as a leader.
Q: What are your passions outside of work?
A: For the last 21 years, curling has been a big part of my life, and I’m a current member of the Fargo Moorhead Curling Club. I also enjoy spending time with my family and friends doing anything from going to local sporting events, to trying new restaurants to learning new skills at a local art class. I also like to travel but, unfortunately, don’t do it as often as I would like.
