Director of Strategic Programs & Partner Alliances @ Sterling

Volunteer Organizations:

North Sioux City Economic Development Council- Board Member

TeamMates Mentoring Program- Mentor

SNAFU Rescue- Foster, transportation, and social media

Alliance of Therapy Dogs- Pet Therapy Team Volunteer, handle, and train a certified therapy dog

What are you working on now? 

Siouxland has been my home for the past 30 years and has provided me with many opportunities, so I am passionate about giving back and helping Siouxland grow. Currently, I am a member of the North Sioux City Economic Development Council, helping strategically grow the North Sioux City area and working with the surrounding cities and the State of South Dakota to make Siouxland a better place to live, work, and visit.  I volunteer with TeamMates Mentoring Program. I am in my 8^th year serving as a mentor through Bishop Heelan Catholic School-Sioux City Chapter. This school-based mentoring program inspires students to reach their full potential by providing them support and encouragement to graduate high school and pursue post-secondary education. I also foster my 12^th dog and volunteer for animal rescues to rehabilitate and rehome dogs in need. We work to minimize the issues of overflowing shelters and rescues, and to educate others about being responsible pet owners including the importance of getting your pets from a reliable source. I believe this will make life easier and happier both for pets and families, and in return will create a happier Siouxland community.

What is your vision for the future?

My vision for the future of Siouxland is to see it continue to grow and expand as a safe, diverse community that has many opportunities for employment and resources for families. I would also love to see the continuation of new businesses relocating here because of our Midwest work ethic, low cost of living, and friendliness.

What would you like to see happen in Siouxland?

 I would like to see the development of new businesses, events, and group activities in the area. This gives people a great opportunity to work together and meet new people they would not in their normal day to day.

What are you doing to make that happen?

In my role at Sterling, I create strong partnerships with 1,500 global companies including Dell, Cisco, Hewlett-Packard, Amazon, and Intel. I bring those companies to Siouxland for events that highlight our local community and all that we have to offer. Other events I help coordinate includes local and national political fundraisers, local college recruiting events, hosting Dakota Valley Business Council meetings, and hosting Leadership Siouxland- Economic Development sessions. I also participate in Sterling’s community outreach program that works with the United Way and Siouxland Food Bank.

How can people help you make that happen?

I would love to see the community support local businesses, advocate for the projects you are passionate about, and participate in activities. The more we support each other, the more opportunities we can create.

What quote or saying inspires you?

Be the change you want to see in the world.