Joined the Chamber Staff: 
February 2017

Role at the Champaign County Chamber:

I am thrilled to be working with the area Schools and other organizations to help to make a difference in the community by providing career education for our high school students through internship programs for various interest areas. The Chamber and community organizations are also working together to support early childhood education with the iRead iCount Program to help our early learners get the start they need for reading and math. Providing the area with a skilled workforce will be a win-win for both the young people entering into the workforce and for the local businesses, and I’m excited to be a part of it.

Favorite childhood book:

I was in a book of the month club beginning in kindergarten and loved Dr. Suess books, The Adventures of Babar, Grimm Fairy Tales, and anything I could get my hands on. Now I enjoy e-books from the Apple store and have hundreds of romantic comedies on file…Who doesn’t like a good laugh and a little romance?

Favorite food:

I have to admit, I’m a junk food junkie and could exist on tacos, chicken wings, pizza, and corn dogs! But, I’m also famous with my family and friends as an accomplished cook and enjoy spending weekends making homemade meals, grilling and smoking meats, and whipping up gourmet dishes.

Favorite Chamber event/program:

I was an international meeting planner at my previous employer, so I know I am going to enjoy each and every event held by the Chamber. I love to be a part of the action and to socialize, meet new people, establish relationships, and to foster education and growth experiences for the meeting/event participants.

If you could possess any super power what would it be?

Samantha Stevens of the “Bewitched” TV show kind of power. Oh to be able to snap my fingers and twitch my nose and make things happen!

Rock, Paper, or Scissors?

Paper. I usually win with this one!

Music preferences?

I love music…with different kinds of music for different times and moods. Music is always on at our house and we listen to a variety of genres: electronic dance/house music, blues, alternative, Latino pop, hip-hop, and jazz. If I had to pick one, it would have to be the EDM/house music.

What is the best advice you have ever received?

My 90 year old mother is one smart lady! She always helped me put things in perspective: 

“Don’t spend your time and energy fretting about the past, as that ship has sailed. Don’t waste your time by worrying about tomorrow and what might be, as that hasn’t unfolded yet. Focus on the present and be the best person you can be today.”