Current Location/Hometown: Griggsville, IL

What was your overall UIS experience like?

My overall experience at UIS far exceeded my expectations. I prepared myself for a challenging experience, but this program not only expanded my understanding of the business world, but it also was a journey of personal discovery. It challenged me to reflect on my strengths, pushed me outside of my comfort zone, and helped me grow into a more confident, self-aware leader.

Through this program, I was afforded the opportunity to participate in the UIS SHRM Student Chapter, as well as be inducted into Beta Gamma Sigma.

Do you have any fond memories of your time at UIS you'd like to share?

Interestingly enough, there were a lot of students in the MBA program that were the same age as me and in the same phase of life - we had kids, we were on zoom meetings with kids and animals in the background, some even in different countries, but everyone just got it and supported each other. Those are the memories that I will take of the program - the way that complete strangers came together - remotely - to form bonds that grew into genuine support, encouragement, and a shared sense of fulfillment throughout the journey.

Aside from the interaction with the cohort of students, two other moments stood out to me. The first was my induction into Beta Gamma Sigma, where I got to meet Dr. Jorge Villegas and other faculty in person. Dr. Villegas has continued to be an encouraging voice in my life, checking in periodically on LinkedIn. The second was graduation day, where I sat on a stage surrounded by other students from all walks of life. That day was memorable because it was shared with my son and now daughter in law, who both also graduated on that day with their undergrad degrees at another university.

Why did you choose UIS?

Completing my masters was always an unfinished path for me personally, and, when I decided to go back to school 20+ years out from my undergrad, I wanted a program that would challenge me to learn and not just be a "piece of paper." I chose UIS because of the online program and the reputation of the school. The admissions counselors were fantastic and really took the time to prepare me for the program, and then to have a team of people supporting me throughout the journey was remarkable. UIS ended up offering me a very diverse opportunity to engage with others in the same phase of life, fulfilling that need for my education to be more than just a piece of paper.

What has your career path been like? How did you end up where you are?

Over the course of my 24+ year career, more than half has been dedicated to the non-profit sector. I began with an internship at a local non-profit during my undergraduate studies, which grew into 14 years of experience with both large national organizations and smaller community-based agencies. In 2016, I transitioned into the financial industry, spending nearly a decade with a local bank in roles spanning marketing, HR, and compliance. In July of this year, I was honored to have the opportunity to return as Executive Director of the Pike County Chamber & Economic Development Corporation, a role I held nearly a decade ago. The MBA program played a pivotal role in this transition—it pushed me to re-evaluate my passions and direction in life, ultimately guiding me back to the work that inspires me most: strengthening our community and creating opportunities for growth.

How did your UIS education prepare you for your career?

My time at UIS prepared me for a career shift that I didn't see, which went beyond academics. The program challenged me to think critically not only about the business world but also about myself - my leadership style, my priorities, and the kind of impact I want to make. The whole experience made me start believing and unearthing passions that were deep inside of me that led me to where I am today.

Do you have any cool hobbies/side projects you'd like to tell us about?

I currently have this cool new hobby of "empty nester!" We recently moved our youngest into college, so my husband and I are entering a new era in our lives of just us at home after raising two kids successfully to adulthood! Aside from embracing this new chapter, I enjoy snowmobiling in the UP, visiting Colorado and the mountains, hitting up concerts, and I also really enjoy reading

What are some life lessons you'd like to share with current students?

If you have a goal in life, go for it. Don't let the barriers in your life stop you from pursuing your dreams and ambitions, but always remember that life isn’t always about your accolades but about your impact on those around you. It is easy to question the path when every step feels uphill — when the weight of challenges makes you wonder if it is even worth it. But it’s in those exact moments, the ones that feel the hardest, that growth is quietly happening. Difficult roads shape strong travelers. And often, without realizing it, you are walking toward something more beautiful than you ever imagined. The journey may test you, but it also transforms you, guiding you into a new chapter where challenges become the foundation for growth, and every ending opens the door to fresh beginnings. I will forever be grateful for this fresh beginning, and I can only hope that it helps transform my life into the legacy I will be known for long after I am gone.