Director of Accounting, Light Consulting
Q: Tell us about yourself.
A: I’m a proud mom to three amazing kids: Nixon (5), Vera (3), and Boone (1); and wife to my husband, Tyler. We live in Moorhead and truly value time together as a family, whether we’re outside enjoying fresh air, gathered around a board game, or relaxing at the lake and soaking up slower moments. Life is full and busy in the best way, and I wouldn’t have it any other way.
I’m originally from Mahnomen, MN, where I grew up on a farm. Some of my favorite childhood memories include helping my dad around the farm and learning to drive tractors and the combine; experiences that still make me smile (and occasionally surprise people). Growing up in a small town shaped who I am and gave me a deep appreciation for community, family, and showing up for one another.
Professionally, I’m the director of accounting at Light Consulting, where we focus on making business and life a little lighter for our clients through CFO services. I love partnering with business owners to bring clarity, confidence, and calm to their financial picture, helping them feel supported and informed as they make decisions. At the end of the day, I’m passionate about people just as much as numbers, and I enjoy being part of a team that truly cares about both.
Q: What inspired you to get involved in your community at a young age?
A: Growing up in a small town, getting involved in my community just felt natural; it was the way everyone around me showed care for each other. I loved joining sports teams, helping with school events, and volunteering whenever I could. I remember feeling proud when even small efforts, like pitching in at a local event, made a difference for others. Those experiences taught me how rewarding it is to work together, support your neighbors, and take pride in the place you call home. They inspired me to stay engaged, give back, and carry that sense of community with me wherever I go.
Q: Who has been the most influential mentor in your life, and why?
A: My parents have been the most influential mentors in my life. They led with love, always generous with hugs, affection, and encouragement, and created a home where support was felt every single day. They taught me the importance of caring for others, staying grounded, and showing up fully for the people and commitments in my life. Their constant presence, kindness, and belief in me shaped who I am and continue to influence how I approach both my personal life and my work.
Q: What does success look like to you right now?
A: Right now, success looks very different from what I once thought it would. I used to believe it meant a certain title, a nice house, or hitting all the milestones on a traditional timeline. What I’ve learned is that success is really about balance and being present. It’s knowing I showed up for the people I care about and stayed true to what matters most to me.
Success now feels like unhurried mornings, meaningful conversations, and ending the day with a sense of calm and contentment. It’s work that feels fulfilling, relationships that feel genuine, and making space for joy in the middle of everyday life. To me, success is the collection of small, ordinary moments that quietly come together to create a life that feels full and meaningful.
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 importance of asking for help and leaning on others. Early on, I felt like I needed to figure everything out on my own, and that sometimes slowed my growth or created unnecessary stress. Over time, I realized that reaching out, asking questions, and collaborating not only makes work more manageable but also opens the door to new perspectives and opportunities. Learning to embrace support and teamwork has made me more confident, effective, and ultimately happier in my work.
Q: Why is our local United Way important to you?
A: It brings people together in a way that’s thoughtful, practical, and truly impactful, often supporting needs most of us don’t even realize exist. I love how United Way makes it easy to be part of something bigger, connecting everyday people to meaningful ways to help right where we live. To me, it represents neighbors helping neighbors. It’s comforting to know there’s an organization quietly working behind the scenes to strengthen our community and lift people up, and I’m proud to support something that makes such a real difference so close to home.
Q: What is a quote you would frame on your desk?
A: “Feet on the ground, heart in the moment.”
