Risk Manager, SCHEELS
Q: Tell us about yourself
A: I’m fortunate to be supported by an incredible husband and son who are my biggest cheerleaders. When the weather is warm, you’ll almost always find me outdoors, soaking up the sunshine and staying active. Community, physical activity, animals, and cooking are at the heart of who I am, and I’m always looking for ways to give back—whether that’s volunteering at an animal shelter, preparing a meal for a neighbor, or picking up roadside litter during a walk. My passion for improving the world around me naturally led me to my role as risk manager at Scheels. I love that my work allows me to think creatively and proactively to mitigate risk while keeping both associates and guests safe.
Q: What inspired you to get involved in your community at a young age?
A: My family. For as long as I can remember, my Grandpa would stop to help anyone he encountered who needed it. He’d always say, “Help the next person you see, it might just be me.” I’ve had my fair share of troubles in my life, but when I look back at what got me through those times, it was the community and compassion I received. It was being seen— my Grandfather saw everyone. Always. He filled the cups of others and cultivated community wherever he went. I strive to teach my son that same lesson and have watched him flourish in his relationships out in the community
Q: Who has been the most influential mentor in your life, and why?
A: My sister, Danielle, has been one of the most influential people in my life. We’ve shared many similar ups and downs, and throughout it all she has been a steady guiding presence—offering support and wisdom in school, parenting, relationships, and beyond. Her unwavering commitment to giving back to her community and her selfless nature continually inspire me and shape the way I approach both my personal and professional life.
Q: What does success look like to you right now?
A: Success to me now looks like balance, purpose, and impact. It means showing up fully for my family while doing meaningful work that keeps others safe and strengthens my community. Success isn’t just about personal achievement— it’s about using my strengths to give back, continuing to grow, and leaving the spaces and people around me better than I found them.
Q: What community issue do you feel deserves more attention?
A: One community issue in Fargo that deserves more attention is homelessness and housing insecurity. As the need for shelter and supportive services continues to grow, addressing this challenge is essential to the safety, health, and long-term well-being of our community
Q: What’s something people might be surprised to learn about you?
A: I actually enjoy writing! I used to write little stories for my grandparents when I was a kid. For a long time, I’ve dreamed of writing children’s books as a side hobby and hope to publish my first book in 2026!
Q: What’s a lesson you’ve learned that you wish you had known earlier in your career?
A: One lesson I wish I had learned earlier in my career is the value of trusting my instincts and thinking creatively when solving problems. Early on, I sometimes hesitated to speak up or try unconventional approaches, but I’ve realized that innovation and proactive thinking—especially in risk management—can make a huge difference. I also wish I had embraced the idea that asking for help and learning from others isn’t a sign of weakness, but a way to grow faster and make a bigger impact.
Q: What’s the best advice you’ve ever received?
A: The best advice I’ve ever received is to focus on what you can control and give your best effort there. When you lead with integrity, kindness, and consistency, everything else has a way of falling into place.
Q: Why is our local United Way important to you?
A: Our local United Way inspires me because it turns community care into real impact—supporting families, strengthening neighborhoods, and helping everyone thrive.
Q: What is a hope you have for our community?
A: One thing I hope for our community is that we continue to grow stronger together—supporting one another, embracing kindness, and creating a place where everyone feels safe, valued, and empowered to thrive.
