What is your current position/company?
Communications Programs Specialist with the United States Postal Service

What is your favorite aspect of your job?
The Postal Service touches everyone, everywhere — which means I get to work with all sorts of people on solutions, events and communications strategies for a variety of situations. Every day literally brings something new. 

How long have you been a member of IABC?
I’ve been a member of IABC Phoenix since 2007 and was a member of the Oregon-Columbia Chapter prior to that. 

What do you hope to gain from your membership/involvement with IABC?
I appreciate the support offered by my peers in Phoenix. Professionals are willing to share their approaches to communications issues and benefit from one another. It’s easy to see why this chapter has been recognized for excellence so many times over the years — it consistently offers top-notch programs and learning opportunities. 

What words of advice do you have for young professionals?
Get a variety of experience and jump enthusiastically into whatever you’re asked to do. Often, your initial jobs may involve somewhat menial tasks. Don’t let that discourage you; display creativity on every assignment you’re given and you’ll be rewarded for your effort. 

Who was/were your biggest professional influence(s)?
My biggest influence as a student was journalism professor Jim Hayes, a sought-after coach and amazing teacher, always rooting for his students to do well. In work, my mentor was Ann Hanson — a true leader who never failed to stand up for her team members while allowing them the freedom to grow and succeed. 

What do you like to do in your spare time?
Sports, movies, video games, bargain hunting — but most of all, spending time with my family. 

What destination do you want to travel to the most?
Having Scandinavian and Germanic roots, I’d like to spend time in that part of the world someday. I’d also love to see at least one game in every Major League Baseball stadium.