Home: Seattle, Washington. Birthplace: Cork, Ireland. Profession: Marketing (Communications and Public Relations). Organization: Olson Kundig. Title: Director of Public Relations and Communications. Alma mater: Dublin City University, Ireland. Languages spoken: English, rusty Irish, French and German (I studied at a German university for a year).
Recent recognition: Mentor of the Year, Dublin City University Structured Mentorship Program. Recent professional development: Completed the altMBA program through Seth Godin’s Akimbo Academy. Latest contribution to others: Ongoing volunteering at Seattle Animal Shelter and Homeward Pet Adoption Center. Hobbies: Hiking, travel, reading, animal rescue volunteering and baking (skill level: amateur!). Recent travel or adventure: Volunteering at Best Friends Animal Sanctuary in Utah combined with Zion, Bryce and Grand Canyon National Parks. Recent unique acquisition: U.S. Citizenship. What is the one song you would happily listen to on repeat? “Red Eyes” – The War on Drugs.
What one word would your closest friend use to describe you? Undaunted. How do you define a perfect friendship? Steadfast, supportive, fun, with a side of sarcasm and self-deprecation. What is your greatest joy? The knowledge that I’m making a contribution. What natural talent have you neglected? Music. What occupation, other than your own, do you most admire? Healthcare professionals. What is at the top of your bucket list? New Zealand. My brother moved there last June, so I’m even more motivated to make the trip now. What ingredient is essential to your perfect vacation? Nature and quality time outdoors.
What book have you repeatedly read? The Book of Joy, by the Dalai Lama, Desmond Tutu and Douglas Carlton Abrams. What’s featured prominently on your office wall? A painting by my uncle of my pup, Kaya, on Orcas Island. It was a surprise gift and means the world to me. What movie have you repeatedly watched? As a child, it was the original Mary Poppins (I think I wore out our family’s VHS tape!). Who has had the greatest influence on your life? My parents. Their values, perseverance, and compassion are all things I strive to emulate. What is your favorite app? Instagram. What is your go-to source of news and information? A combination of BBC News, NY Times, and RTE Radio 1 Playback (weekly Irish podcast). What company or organization do you most admire? Patagonia, for their brand purpose, activism and community engagement. They seem to truly talk the talk, and walk the walk.
What is your big idea? By sharing with others strengths they cannot yet see in themselves, we can embolden those around us. What change are you working on to effect in your profession or field? Supporting and creating shortcuts for the next generation of women. What change would you like to see in the world? More empathy. What widely held belief do you reject? That vulnerability is a sign of weakness.
Who would you like to spend an evening with, in Heaven? My grandparents. What advice would you give your younger self? Seek out guidance and mentorship. People are surprisingly generous if you simply ask! What period in your life would you do differently if you could? None. Whether it's ups or downs, it all leads you to where you’re meant to be.
Personal mission: To make a contribution – in ways little and large. Personal motto: Be comfortable in the uncomfortable. If it doesn’t feel a little uncomfortable, you’re probably not pushing yourself enough. Favorite quote: "At the center of your being you have the answer; you know who you are and you know what you want" (Lao Tzu).
