Tell us about yourself.
I’m a wife, mother, daughter and so much more. I consider myself a strong, organized, passionate and loyal individual who genuinely cares about others. I’ve always loved any opportunity to be creative or learn a new skill like embroidery or bullet journaling. Lately, I’ve been obsessed with reading as many books as I can. In my free time, you can find me enjoying the outdoors in any temperature while listening to the soundtracks of musical theater albums.
In my role, I work directly with Fargo/ Moorhead area high school students who’ve already made their name in this community and I want them to continue that legacy by attending Concordia. I believe in the power of higher education. As a direct influencer on a student’s college search, it is deeply meaningful to me that students find a place where they belong by also being accessible. I’m their connection to campus to help break down barriers like cost or to address concerns in order to make their college decision as stress-free as possible. Every student deserves a right to an education and my job is to help guide them to see how college can assist them to reach their ultimate goal.
Who are some people who have been influential in your journey and why?
Carola Thorson has been instrumental in my career in admission. She was the first strong woman leader I had in my life. She was respected by all genders which [was] so admirable. She showed me what a true leader looked like by teaching me that a leader listens, acts on what needs action and provides emotional and professional support without crossing a line. She also showed me how to incorporate pieces of myself to be creative in the work we do. Her support was invaluable and she showed me how to do the same for others.
What drives you?
I feel like I have a good grasp on my goals personally and professionally and I’ve committed to making them become a reality. I envision the outcome coming to fruition which helps me push through adversity or tough times to achieve that dream.
What are some important lessons you have learned in your lifetime?
Don’t sweat the small stuff. There are some things in life that I will never have control over and that’s okay. This is not easy for me to admit, but I am constantly reminding myself of this exact sentiment and some days are harder than others.
What are some of your favorite things to do in our community?
The Red River Market is hands down my favorite activity! I love spending each summer and fall supporting local businesses in this way. My family also enjoys going to the Red River Zoo and hanging out with all the animals. The otters are a big hit with my daughter. We also spend a lot of time outside by walking and biking in the many local parks on the amazing trails by the river.
What is your dream job and why?
Park Ranger in Glacier National Park. Glacier is my favorite place on this earth (so far) and I would love nothing more than to experience it as an expert and share my love for it with others. To wake up every day in the mountains is the dream.
Do you have any book or podcast recommendations for our readers?
Wolfpack by Abby Wambach! As a midwest woman, it can be so easy to be humble and quiet as a leader. This book gives the permission to break down those barriers and make a new pathway for people like myself and lead in ways I didn’t think about previously. Definitely a key book for any professional woman!
What are you hoping to gain from the United Way 35 Under 35 Women’s Leadership Program?
I’m really excited to better myself for my community and the work that I do. I hope I can take what I learn and directly apply it to my daily life, professionally and personally. I’m eager to make connections and be part of a group of strong women that build each other up and support one another.
What do you think can be improved in our community?
I have been so grateful to be in the Fargo/ Moorhead community for around 10 years total. I look forward to the continued growth in different mindsets and becoming open and welcome to all.
What do you think can be improved in our business community?
I would love nothing more than to see the business community grow with even more family-friendly activities. We are really fortunate to have some incredible opportunities in Fargo/Moorhead, but more is always better!
What are some of your passions outside of work?
I love reading, hiking, biking, traveling, stitching embroidery and organizing my bullet journal.
Is there anything else you would like to say to the readers of Fargo INC! magazine?
Because I work in admission, if I could give one piece of advice to anyone in the college search process, it’s to believe in yourself. There’s a lot of fear associated with “making the right decision.” Whatever decision you make is going to be the right decision for you. Trust your gut, weigh all your options and you got this!
