What’s something you’ve created recently?

One of the most meaningful things I’ve created recently is stained glass art. Over the past few years, I’ve developed a deep interest in the craft, which began with a class I took through Minnetrista. I was instantly hooked. Since then, I’ve continued to take classes at Minnetrista, and more recently at Cornerstone, and have completed several pieces, including a feather, a rainbow, a valentine envelope, a cardinal, and Twink from Rainbow Brite. Twink is the piece I’m most proud of thus far, as I designed the pattern myself.

Currently, I’m working on Starlite, Rainbow Brite’s horse, which I also designed, and a vintage Santa face pattern. This creative outlet has become a source of both relaxation and energy for me. It’s a refreshing contrast to my typically methodical career and organized personality, and it’s helped me tap into a different side of myself that I truly value.

Share an example of a time you stepped out of your comfort zone or did something that surprised you.

Honestly, for the last three years, I’ve been on a mission to step out of my comfort zone and challenge myself with new and transformative experiences. It began when I submitted my application for the Project Administrator role at my company, which was a bold move for me that took nine months to come to fruition. When I was finally offered the position, it ignited a deeper desire to strengthen my leadership skills, expand my community involvement, and explore my professional potential more fully.

One of the most challenging — and rewarding — experiences during this journey was participating in the LSN Academy over the past year. The program pushed me to stretch beyond my usual boundaries and overcome my natural shyness. I was challenged to engage in high-level strategic thinking, contribute meaningfully to group discussions, and collaborate with professionals from a wide range of industries and backgrounds.

Looking back, I’m proud of how far I’ve come. That experience showed me that I’m capable of succeeding even when the path feels hard or intimidating. It was truly transformative; not only did it expand my skill set, but it also reshaped how I view myself as a leader and contributor. I learned that discomfort isn’t something to avoid; it’s often the gateway to growth, confidence, and discovering strengths I didn’t know I had.

What’s one way you’ve been able to give back to your community?

One way I’ve been able to give back to my community is through my involvement with the Community Foundation of Delaware County. For the past several years, I’ve served on the Scholarship Committee, which has been especially meaningful to me as an Alumni Scholar. Being on the other side of the process — helping select new recipients — has been both humbling and inspiring. Reading through the applications reminds me just how much young people are doing to uplift their communities, and it’s truly energizing.

Earlier this year, I expressed interest in becoming more involved with the foundation and was honored to be invited to join the Grants Committee as well. Serving on both committees has been incredibly rewarding. It’s given me a front-row seat to the generosity and innovation happening in our community, and I’m grateful to play a role in supporting initiatives that make a real difference.

What has been your favorite LSN experience?

So far, my favorite LSN experience has been participating in Collegiate Connect this spring. As an older graduate, I was initially unsure of how well I’d be able to connect with the younger Scholars or whether I could truly make an impact. But the experience turned out to be incredibly rewarding. It gave me the opportunity to share the life lessons and insights I’ve gathered over the past 19 years since graduating college and navigating adulthood.

My favorite part of the event was conducting mock interviews with the Scholars. Reviewing their resumes, offering feedback, and coaching them on interview strategies was both engaging and inspiring. Their enthusiasm and openness reminded me of the power of mentorship and the value of shared experience.

This event not only deepened my connection to the LSN community but also encouraged me to get more involved. It affirmed my interest in participating in future programs — especially Scholar Link — where I can continue to support and uplift the next generation of leaders.