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Education: Bachelor of Arts in history and international relations, Duke University; Juris Doctor, Washington University in St. Louis

Hometown: Chicago

Family: Husband James and son Noah. Siblings Heather and Ross, and father Joseph

Hobbies: Reading, art and jazz

Words to live by: Pray without ceasing. 1 Thessalonians 5:17

Three notable accomplishments: 

• Graduating from law school and being a national finalist in the mock trial trial competition.
• Owning the Great Frame Up for 18 years and being the only franchise still open in Iowa. The others all closed, including the mall version. I’ve hosted hundreds of local and regional artists and supported them with gallery openings to showcase emerging talent to the public.
• Collaborating with Athene and the West Des Moines Chamber team and members to launch the Athene Black & Brown Business Summit for our region to amplify minority business owners and show others the national talent in the business community.

How have you helped improve organizations you’ve been a part of? 

I’ve tried my best to be supportive of others and kind. I’ve encouraged inclusive behavior and intentionality to ensure all voices are represented and considered.

As a family, my husband and I have been a resource for children in our home as foster parents over the years. We’ve supported youth through ministry, community, and civic sponsorships and volunteerism. This continues to be very rewarding for us both.

What motivates you?

I understand my purpose. “To whom much is given, much is required.” I’m focused on making a positive impact and making a life-changing difference in the lives of others. 

Is there a memory or experience from your formative years that continues to influence your approach to life? 

Yes, I lost my mother when I was 15 years old. I treasured the time she poured into my life. I recognized that tomorrow is not promised and that it was important to pour into others to be a blessing in a powerful way. She was a trailblazer in many ways. She started her first business at 16. My father is also an entrepreneur. Watching both of them work together in the family business taught me about determination and the power of faith. But “faith without work” is dead. They were both hard workers and I’ve tried to work hard to be a blessing to others in my professional and volunteer pursuits.

What piece of advice would you give to others who hope to make a difference in their communities?

Try new things! There are no guarantees the things that you try will be successful. However, there is one guarantee: If you don’t try it, you will never know. There are many people who get to their later years and wonder “what if?” Try things early and imagine the possibilities. Our communities would be boring if we didn’t have people who acted upon the things they dreamed or imagined. We wouldn’t have murals,museums, and the music and theater that we all enjoy.

Tell us about a time you failed (or at least you did from your own perception). 

Lots of times. I’ve learned to pick up and keep it moving. I’ve learned not to dwell on the mistakes or errors for too long. I’ve learned to evaluate the mistake and put practices in place to prevent it from happening again. This was critical as I built my business. I used to overpromise and customers would be upset. I’ve learned to underpromise with the goal of overdelivering. We don’t always succeed, but that is the ultimate goal.

What is a favorite book, show, movie, podcast, etc. that you’d encourage others to consume? 

The movie “The Best of Enemies” with Taraji P. Henson. Currently listening to “The Jolly Journey” podcast by Pamela Jolly. I would encourage everyone to read “From Slavery to Freedom” by John Hope Franklin.

How do you try to find balance and joy in the many activities you take part in?

I take walks along the water. I enjoy water and the calmness of nature. I read, listen to music and pray. I enjoy spending time alone with God to pray or be still, and this relaxes me. 

What is one of your guilty pleasures? 

Chocolate. Let’s be honest, most sweets get me going. I’m a huge fan of all things chocolate.

What’s something many people don’t know about you?

I’ve been to China twice. 

Anything else you want to add about yourself? 

I love people and enjoy coaching and developing others. This is a big part of my purpose.

What do you consider the greatest barrier to gender equity?

Silence. If people don’t speak up when they see there needs to be changes, the changes can’t happen. 

Who is an empowering woman that you look up to? 

My mother is the empowering woman that I look up to.

What will it take for women to achieve gender parity in leadership positions?

A big portion of this requires intentionality. It also requires fathers, husbands, brothers and sons to “speak up” and be champions for women in spaces where women are not present in leadership. I think it also requires women who are in a position of influence to be inclusive and intentional to promote other women. 

What support would be most helpful for business leaders to provide for their women and nonbinary employees? 

Be an advocate! Be a sponsor! Be a good listener. Listen to understand. Listen to learn. Listen to provide support. Listen to provide resources – financial and nonfinancial. Listen and act! Review the information and formulate an action plan that helps them advance in the ways they are seeking support – promotion, rest, reassignment, new opportunities – all of these are critical to advancing women. The challenges are evident. No one is perfect. The more leaders and businesses can advocate for the women in their families, organizations and communities, the better we will all be.

Fill in the blank: If gender equity were achieved, the world would look like ____________.

Not sure. I think the painting would be colorful and beautiful, full of life, diversity and vitality.