Home: Bloomington, Illinois. Age: 50-something, which is really the new 30-something, right? Profession: Thirty years in the insurance industry, including roles in finance, HR, underwriting, sales, learning, Convention & Travel and public relations. Organization: State Farm. Title: Assistant Vice President – Public Relations. Preferred pronouns: She/Her/Hers. Significant other: My husband, Mike. Alma mater: Illinois State University (B.S., Accounting); University of Illinois (Executive MBA).
Current project: Leading my organization's Celebration to 100 events as we approach our 100th anniversary. Latest accomplishment: Lost 60 lbs., one decision at a time! Latest contribution to others: Helped a leader understand self-awareness and how important it is. Hobbies: Travel; being the best aunt ever; attending live sporting events, wine tasting and hanging out with friends and family. Recent travel or adventure: Thailand. One of my favorite places on earth! Amazing people, beautiful culture, unbelievable food, stunning views. Last book read: Remember, by Lisa Genova. Recently viewed and recommended: The New Rules of Business podcast; Yellowstone, Oculus 2.
What one word would your closest friend use to describe you? Generous. Moral compass: WWDD (What Would Dad Do)? What is your greatest joy? Being an aunt. There is nothing better! What is your guilty pleasure? A weekend at a spa by myself. What is your go-to workout? Peloton. Bike, strength and meditation.
What three emojis best describe you? 🤣🍷✈.
What TV show have you repeatedly watched? Law & Order: Special Victims Unit. I can’t get enough and have seen every episode multiple times! Who has had the greatest influence on your life? Grandma Gail. What is the best advice you received growing up? You have a brain; you should never be bored. What is the best advice you received in your career?Just be you. What is your favorite app? So many! Social media apps, Gemini (removes duplicate photos), Peloton, Hulu. What is your go-to source of news and information? Morning Brew, Apple News, WSJ, New York Times.
What change would you like to see in the world? A change in the current education system to be more experience based. What mega-trend most excites you? The metaverse. What mega-trend most concerns you? The metaverse.
Who would you like to spend an evening with, in heaven? My grandparents. As a kid, what did you first want to be when you grew up? An elevator operator. What object would you first save from your burning home? My great-grandmother's wood carvings, my grandma’s paintings, and photo albums. How would you choose to spend tomorrow, if you knew it was your last day on earth? With family, playing board games. What advice would you give your younger self? Popular kids, brainy kids, nerdy kids, are all just people! Be you, because you are amazing.
Personal motto: Always be grateful. Favorite quote: "You’re braver than you believe, stronger than you seem and smarter than you think” (Winnie the Pooh). Desired epitaph: Loved Hard. Played Hard. Gave Hard.
