Home: Phoenix, AZ. Age: 40. Birthplace: Illinois. Profession: Healthcare. Organization: Affiliated Dermatology. Title: Chief Operating Officer. Pronouns: She/Her/Hers. Significant other: Supportive husband Matt Murry. Education: Phoenix College (A.A.S.); Arizona State University (B.A. candidate).
Recent professional recognition: An employee recently took the time to thank me for always supporting her growth. She stated that, although I am busy running the company, I still make time to support the team and look for ways to help them grow. Recent personal recognition: The best recognition comes from my son. It warms my heart when my four-year-old stops what he is doing to tell me I am the best mommy ever! Recent professional development: Certification in Human Resources. Latest accomplishment: Graduating from Phoenix College with an associate’s degree in Organizational Management. I’m continuing my education at Arizona State University to earn a bachelor’s in Project Management. Latest contribution to others: Building future leaders. I am where I am today because someone saw something in me, that I didn’t necessarily see in myself. I try to do the same, by pulling people out of their comfort zones and providing them with the tools and resources to advance in their careers. What’s been your big (or biggest leap)? Buckling down and making my education a priority. You truly can achieve whatever you set out to do if your heart is in it.
Personality profile: Witty, loyal, empathetic, curious. What one word would your closest friend use to describe you? Driven. Moral compass: Do what’s right, even when it isn’t easy. What is your greatest joy? Being a wife and a mother. Watching our son grow and build his confidence along the way. What occupation, other than your own, do you most admire? Teachers and police officers. They don’t always get the credit they deserve for putting the needs of others before their own.
What three emojis best describe you? 🥳💞🤣.
What is at the top of your bucket list? South African safari when our son is old enough to appreciate it. What ingredient is essential to your perfect vacation? Being able to unplug in order to enjoy the company around you.
What was your first paying job? As a waitress in a hamburger joint called Schoops. They had the best burgers, with the crispy edges. Besides your parents, who has had the greatest influence on your life? My grandparents. What’s the best advice you received in your career? To always stay curious, invest in your people and lead with your heart. What world event has had the greatest influence on your life? Two: 9/11 and COVID. Running a business during a global pandemic was not something I was prepared for, but we survived and came out even stronger.
What change would you like to see in the world? I know it sounds cliché, but kindness. If everyone were to lead with kindness, the world would be a much better and brighter place. What message do you want to send out into the world? Achievement and success are obtainable regardless of social station. Don’t let your upbringing define who you are or limit your possibilities. What mega-trend most concerns you? The polarization of Western politics.
What title would you choose for the movie about your life? Organized Chaos. Who would you like to spend an evening with, in heaven? My Nanny. I am forever grateful for the time I got to spend with my grandma. She influenced my life in more ways than one. What advice would you give your younger self? Life is too short to care about what others think. Live the life that makes you happy. What day in your life would you choose to re-live? My wedding day. Eleven years later, I still hear from family and friends about how amazing our wedding was.
Personal mission: To raise my family with the love, kindness, and opportunities that I did not have growing up. Personal Motto: It is important to look beyond the surface and acknowledge the sacrifices one has taken in order to achieve. Favorite quote: “We delight in the beauty of the butterfly, but rarely admit the changes it has gone through to achieve that beauty” (Maya Angelou).
