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.”
That simple phrase was a lightbulb moment for me. Kindness isn’t about avoiding tough conversations or sugarcoating the truth. It’s about being honest and intentional with your words, so everyone gets the respect they deserve. When we allow someone the chance to fully understand a situation, receive honest feedback, or improve upon a skill, we create opportunities to celebrate growth and build trusting relationships with the people around us. Because of this, I truly believe that choosing clarity is one of the kindest things we can do.
Q: What is a quote you would frame on your desk?
A: “Courage over comfort” is a motto that resonates with me and guides how I approach both my personal and professional life. It’s not about being fearless or never experiencing doubt or anxiety. Instead, it’s about making the conscious choice to move forward despite those feelings. I’ve learned that growth and meaningful change rarely happen within the boundaries of comfort. It’s when we step outside of what’s familiar and safe, when we embrace uncertainty and vulnerability, that we open ourselves up to new opportunities and deeper understanding.
Choosing courage means accepting that discomfort is part of the process. It means acknowledging fear but not letting it dictate our decisions. Over time, I’ve realized that those moments of vulnerability are where I’ve found my greatest clarity, purpose, and connection with others. Whether it’s taking on a new challenge at work, supporting someone else’s growth, or making personal changes, leaning into discomfort has helped me build resilience and confidence.
Q: What is a hope you have for our community?
A: I hope that as our community continues to grow, we hold onto the unique gift Fargo has—a place where we have access to so many opportunities, yet still support each other with the close-knit care of a small town. Growing up here, I always appreciated being part of a community filled with servant hearts. That spirit inspired me to approach others with empathy and understanding, and it showed me how much easier life’s challenges become when we show up for one another during tough times.
I know it can be easy for a growing community to lose that sense of connection and become more disconnected, but my hope is that we never lose sight of our dedication to the people who call Fargo-Moorhead home. Maintaining that commitment to support and uplift each other is what makes this community truly special.
