Early Career Coordinator, Marsh McLennan Agency
Q: Tell us about yourself.
A: I’m a Fargo native and proud graduate of North Dakota State University, where I earned my degree in human development and family science in 2019. After college, I spent several years exploring my passions and interests, trying to determine how to align them with a meaningful career and ultimately discover my purpose. Now, I’m fortunate to help others navigate their own journeys, providing guidance and support as they grow professionally and personally as the early career coordinator at Marsh McLennan Agency.
In this position, I have the privilege of designing, managing, and supporting our intern and early career programs—both in day-to-day operations and long-term program development. On a personal note, this summer my husband Blake and I celebrated our wedding in Detroit Lakes on what turned out to be the hottest day of the summer! Since then, we’ve been busy turning our new house into a home. In my free time, I enjoy crafting, hunting for treasures at estate sales, and spending time at the lake. Recently, I’ve also discovered a green thumb and have been growing a collection of indoor plants, which brings me a lot of joy and calm.
Q: Who has been the most influential mentor in your life, and why?
A: I first met Rebecca Saari as my freshman year theatre teacher, and she has continued to be a mentor and inspiration in my life since. During a time of transition in my life, Becky gave me the opportunity to lead as the hair and makeup designer for Davies High School’s theatre department. She guided me on the interpersonal dynamics of leading a creative team, encouraged me to voice my ideas, and pushed me to explore my passions to develop a clear vision for my future. If Becky had not invested in me, I would lack the focus and direction I now have for my personal life and career. She has consistently modeled what it means to be a confident leader by setting boundaries with compassion and inspiring me to seek opportunities, ask questions, and learn from setbacks. I am forever grateful for the clarity and stability she has helped me find along my journey.
Q: What’s the best advice you’ve ever received?
A: Clear is kind. My personality is rooted in caring and empathy for others, and I’m proud of that. But it hasn’t come without its own challenges. I naturally worry about hurting people’s feelings or causing conflict, so I found myself struggling to be as direct as I needed to be in an attempt to spare someone embarrassment or frustration. One day, I asked my manager, Sam, for advice on handling a difficult conversation, and she simply said, “Emily, clear is kind.”
