When you were a child, what did you want to be when you grew up?
When I was in elementary school, I wanted to be a school teacher.
What would you do if you didn’t work in healthcare?
Having spent a significant portion of my career in financial services I would probably not pursue another corporate role. I love working with teenagers and young people. I would probably work in a role to help and guide under privileged teenagers through high school and college.
What do you like most about working in healthcare marketing?
The ability to contribute to driving health equity and empowering communities that are disproportionately impacted by the social determinants of health.
What frustrates you most about working in healthcare marketing?
I believe there are many opportunities to inform and advocate for underserved people around the world. There is much work to be done and time is of the essence. There is such a great need and not quite enough resources to meet the immediate needs.
Who was your mentor? What made her or him an effective mentor?
I have been lucky enough to have had a number of mentors in my career. There are several people I admire and find to be incredibly effective mentors including Carla Harris and Shellye Archambeau. They are both clear and direct about the strategies that worked for them and the new strategies that can be applied regardless of one’s level, function and industry.
What are you doing to mentor others — to send the career ladder back down, so to speak?
I mentor both formally and informally. I extend my support and insights to emerging diversity officers. I also mentor a number of professionals who are early in their careers. In addition, I gladly make the time for professionals in the midst of transitioning into their roles be it a promotion or roles with a new organization.
What’s something your colleagues don’t know about you?
I like to think I am an open book especially if you’ve known me for a while. I can be extremely optimistic about my opportunity to contribute to effect change. On the lighter side, I can’t skate but I collect skateboards. I don’t like to drive but I am intrigued with car racing.
What are the three things in your daily workspace that you can’t live without?
My rubber duck(s). It’s a reminder to let things roll off my back.
Natural light and a view of the outdoors.
A snack. I am especially fond of gummy bears and popsicles.
What is your favorite book (or TV show, movie, band or song)? What about it resonates strongly with you?
I enjoy short stories, especially those written by the author J. California Cooper. They generally feature peculiar characters, a little humor, and folksy wisdom. It’s a reminder that there are many types of people in the world and no matter how peculiar they serve a purpose and contribute in their own way to society.
What’s on your to-do list for when you retire?
First, I would like to travel. Second, I will find time to serve others in some way. Finally, I joke about becoming the CEO of a bookmobile. I love reading and I think all children should have access to books. I am certain that I will find a way to fund either classroom libraries or community book giveaways.
