3 Fun Facts
I enjoy learning about the stories behind projects. Not just what is being built, but why it matters to the people who will use it.-
I truly love to travel. So much in fact, I lived in Prague for one year!
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I love to cook ~ specifically the deliciously simple Italian recipes.
What would you tell your younger self about economic development?
Economic development is all about listening and connecting with people in a genuine way.
What’s something you wish you knew before starting your current role?
Before starting my current role, I wish I had understood how much of business development is really about showing up and building trust over time. It is not always about having the perfect response or knowing exactly where a conversation will lead. Some of the most meaningful opportunities come from consistently showing up, following through, and taking the time to understand what matters to people. I also wish I had realized sooner that asking questions and leaning on the expertise of others is a strength, not a weakness. You do not have to have every answer; you just need to stay curious and committed to learning.
What advice do you have for up-and-coming economic developers?
Stay curious about the community you serve. Learn its history, its challenges, its leaders, and what makes it unique. Say yes to opportunities that put you in the room, even if you do not feel completely ready yet.
What’s a recent economic development/career win you have experienced?
A recent career win has been helping my team prepare for and complete a major healthcare project interview. It required a lot of coordination, preparation, and collaboration, and I was proud of how everyone came together. It was a great reminder that strong relationships and thoughtful preparation can make a meaningful difference.
Who do you look up to in the field? What advice might you give to young professionals about mentorship?
I look up to my leader, Charlie Crews. She is always generous with her time, intentional about developing others, and willing to share both her successes and lessons learned. My advice to young professionals is to be proactive about mentorship. Find someone whose path or values you admire, ask for a short conversation, and come prepared to learn. The strongest mentorships develop naturally when you stay curious, follow through, and build a relationship over time.
