I'm thrilled to be asked to be a Professional in Residence for my alma mater! After graduating, my career took me across several industries. I started as a reporter and news producer, then found myself doing writing and video production for an agency. I was then tapped to join the non-profit sector as a fundraiser, which merged all my communication skills. From storytelling to relationship building and learning to communicate complex ideas that moved people to action. I'm really looking forward to helping students find purposeful stories and encouraging them to tell stories with courage and thoughtfulness. 

Early in my career, I worked as a journalist for KOLN/KGIN TV (Lincoln), KCAU TV (Sioux City), Nebraska Public Media and KRVN. I also worked in production for KOLN/KGIN and for Nebraska Public Television. 

I've worked in the  non-profit sector for the last 25 years holding positions in fundraising and communications at Friendship Home, St. Monica's, Nebraska Public Radio and Television Foundation, and the Nebraska Children and Families Foundation. 

Additionally, I worked with associations and organizations to develop spokespeople for their organization as a consultant. I volunteered as a board member, Program Chair and Head Speech Coach for TedX Lincoln for 6 years. 

For the last 10 years, I was the President of the Foundation for Lincoln Public Schools where we raised millions of dollars to support students to reach their full potential. I retired from Non-Profit work in the fall of 2024.

In November of 2024, I launched a new company called Open Window. Open Window energizes stories into messages and strategies that connect, inspire, and drive meaningful change. Services include Media Training, Spokesperson Training, Speech Coaching and Non-Profit Consulting. Clients include UNL Office of Research and Innovation, Lincoln Electric System, Nebraska Bankers Association and more. 

I graduated from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln with a Bachelor of Journalism. I am also a Certified Fundraising Executive, granted through the National Association of Fundraising Professionals, and I am a Certified Education Foundation Leader granted by the National Association of Education Foundations. 

I enjoy volunteering in community facing organizations. I am the Chair Elect of the Angels Theater Company Board. I serve as a board member at The Foundry and at Leadership Lincoln. 

I'm the proud mother of 5 kids, all of whom attended or currently attend UNL. My partner Joel and I are adjusting to a somewhat empty nest and we are kept company by our pups Frankie and Milo.