Describe your profession and what is your favorite part of it?
My career is hands down the most fun and exciting thing that I think I could ever do! I have the privilege of taking a local business’ objectives and figure out ways to make people to DO or BELIEVE something. The ultimate goal is to create an integrated marketing campaign utilizing multiple platforms. My favorite part is the customization to each client’s specific needs and coordinating experiences through exclusive lifestyle programs. We are the media partners for the Indianapolis Colts, the Indiana Pacers, the Indianapolis Motor Speedway. We produce the downtown 4th of July Fireworks that blast off of the Regions Tower, we have music artists, athletes, comedians and celebrities through the building frequently.
What do you like to do when you are not working?
I have a six pound yorkie named Mack and a one hundred pound golden/lab mix named Baxter. We like to go for walks. I also enjoy gardening and must say this weather is REALLY helping out my tomatoes! I enjoy a variety of live music, craft beer festivals and events around town. I have a wonderful group of close friends and we travel to Nashville or load up the kayaks for a weekend on the river! However, hands down, my favorite thing to do – I’m a Colt’s Season ticket holder. My mother shares the other seat. Sunday’s are our FUNdays and I love spending time with her.
What is the most satisfying benefit you get from being a Rotarian?
The most satisfying benefit from being a Rotarian is the feeling of community. I absolutely adore Indianapolis and as a Rotarian, I am constantly learning about ways that we can make this a better community. My fellow Rotarians have all been very friendly and welcoming. I have recently taken over the chair of the Business Networking committee and I’m thrilled to work with President Matt, Susie and Greg on ways that we can make this aspect of our club better!
Tell us about your family.
If you’ve ever been to Madison, Indiana and seen the electric plant smoke stacks on the Ohio River, you have seen part of my family’s past. My Great Grandfather farmed the land the electric plant sits on prior to it’s construction. After he “sold” the land to the government, he relocated the family to Columbus, Indiana. His daughter, my grandmother, was the assistant of the school district for BSCS for years and now resides in the Lutheran Home in Seymour, Indiana. My grandfather worked at Irwin Union bank until he retired. He passed two years ago. He taught me the importance of fiscal responsibly and how to garden. He would be proud to see how far my garden has come this year! My father is a Disabled American Veteran of the Vietnam War and worked for Force Construction in Columbus, Indiana until he retired. My mother started out working on a factory line a t Aisin U.S.A. when I was five years old. Two months ago, she retired from her position as Executive Vice President of Human Resources. My family has taught me the value of hard work and how to utilize your own resources.
Share one thing people do not know about you.
I have been a bridesmaid in 21 weddings and my 22nd wedding is on August 8th!
Share some “words to live by,” or your favorite quote.
PERSISTENCE. Nothing in the world can take the place of persistence. Talent will not; noting is more common than unsuccessful men with talent. Genius will not; unrewarded genius is almost a proverb. Education will not; the world is full of educated derelicts. Persistence and determination alone will bring success.
What you be doing if you were not in your present profession, today?
I would be a nurse or a pediatrician. From the time I was a little girl, I had always wanted to be a “kid” doctor. When I became the Photo Editor of the Columbus North Triangle Newspaper, I knew that journalism of some sort was my passion.
Outside of Rotary, please share other interesting civic or community involvement of which you are a part.
I work actively with the American Heart Association. I help with the production of Indy Has Heart, the Red Dress Dash and the Heart of Gold Ball. I am on the events committee for Junior Achievement. I also try to look for ways to help out Susan G. Komen and a new group called Cocktails and Causes.
Where do you see yourself in ten years?
Living somewhere like Butler Tarkington, in a rehabbed house.. and who knows.. maybe a kid or two? MAYBE! 🙂
