HR Business Partner, TrueNorth Steel
Q: Tell us about yourself.
A: I grew up and attended school in Battle Lake, Minnesota, before moving to the Fargo–Moorhead area in 2010 with a simple goal: to “figure out” what I wanted to be when I grew up. I initially enrolled at MSUM to study Psychology, but after one semester, I quickly realized that traditional university life didn’t fit my work schedule or my reality at the time. I needed flexibility—something that would allow me to keep moving forward without putting life on pause. That realization led me to M State Moorhead, where I earned my Associate of Applied Science degree in Human Resources. While completing my degree, I began working in the HR field as an HR assistant, and that experience sparked what has now become a 16-year career.
Over the years, I’ve held a variety of roles with different organizations throughout the area, continuously learning, growing, and deepening my understanding of the field. When it came time to choose a focus, one thing became clear: I genuinely enjoy being around people and helping them in meaningful ways. Whether it’s through home health care— where I can make a positive impact in someone’s personal space—or through Human Resources—where I support employees at every stage of the employee life cycle—I find fulfillment in work that centers around people. HR has been an especially rewarding path, allowing me to blend problemsolving, empathy, and advocacy into a career I truly enjoy. Above all else, my most important role is being a mother and stepmom. My partner, Mitch, and I are proud parents to four fantastically wonderful kids: Ava, Josh, Lauryn, and Noah. As a family, we love spending time camping, swimming, and enjoying anything zoo-related. And when I’m lucky enough to steal a few quiet moments to myself, you’ll usually find me with a good book or working in my garden.
Q: Who has been the most influential mentor in your life, and why?
A: I can’t name just one person who has shaped me, because so many incredible people have influenced the person I am today. My mother, grandmothers, and aunts have been guiding lights, showing me the value of hard work, compassion, and resilience. Close friends have offered support, perspective, and encouragement during life’s twists and turns. Each of these relationships has contributed to my growth in different ways—teaching me lessons about kindness, perseverance, and the importance of showing up for others. I’m grateful for the collective impact of these voices in my life, as they’ve helped me evolve into someone who values connection, empathy, and the joy of lifting others along the way
Q: What’s something people might be surprised to learn about you?
A: In high school, I cheered on the sidelines and ran karaoke nights at a local hangout just outside town—basically, I’ve spent my life helping people have fun and letting their voices be heard! Those early days taught me the joy of bringing people together and creating moments full of energy, laughter, and connection.
Q: Where do you hope to make the biggest impact over the next five years?
A: I hope to make the biggest impact at home in the next five years. Raising four children has been the most humbling and rewarding experience of my life, and it has taught me more about patience, empathy, and unconditional love than anything else ever could. As they grow, my goal is to be a steady presence—someone who listens, supports, and encourages them to become confident, kind, and resilient individuals. While my professional life is important to me, the influence I have within my family is the one that matters most, and it’s where I hope to leave my greatest mark.
Q: Why is our local United Way important to you?
A: Our local United Way is important to me because I understand how important it is that we help others in need. Each one of us is a moment away from something lifechanging happening, and when we fall on hard times, it’s important to know that there are resources available.
Q: What is a hope you have for our community?
A: I hope our community remains united. The past few years have been challenging for both our country and our local communities, testing our resilience, patience, and compassion. More than ever, I value the strength that comes from neighbors supporting one another, from listening with empathy, and from coming together despite differences. I hope we continue to foster connection, understanding, and a shared commitment to lifting each other up—because it’s in our unity that we find hope, progress, and the true heart of community.
Q: What is a quote you would frame on your desk?
A: “You don’t luck into integrity. You work at it.” I actually have this one framed at my desk!
