What have you accomplished in your professional life/career since your 40 Under 40 selection?
I’ve always been passionate about animal welfare. I thought I was done with school after I received my graduate degree in nonprofit management in 2009 but I headed back to college for a certificate in lifesaving animal shelter management in 2016. Before I even completed all of my courses, I joined the staff of the Dane County Humane Society. I am now the director of development and marketing, leading a fantastic team of 10 professionals. I also serve on the DCHS Leadership Team, led by our Executive Director Pam McCloud Smith, a recent IB Women of Industry award winner for her efforts to lead DCHS to being one of the top-tier animal shelters in the United States, and her influence on the entire animal welfare industry. I’m so excited to be a part of this lifesaving community resource, especially as DCHS is about to celebrate our 100th year of serving this community.
What accomplishments, milestones, or endeavors have you attained in your personal life since your 40 Under 40 selection?
My husband, William, and I recently celebrated our 20th wedding anniversary in 2019. Our tradition is visiting Olbrich Gardens every year to repeat part of our wedding ceremony in the spot where we were married. William has a big heart and knows animal rescue is just in the very fabric of my being. Over the years, nearly 30 special needs and senior animals have made their way home with us as their final home. Most are with us only a year or two before they pass away. The joy of providing a comfortable last home for these animals far outweighs the sadness. We’ve also fostered hundreds of adoptable animals along the way while they were waiting for new homes.
If you were to “do it all over again,” what (if anything) would you do differently throughout your career?
I feel like I’ve ended up exactly where I was always meant to be, so whatever path my career took up until now put me in the right place. Every experience, good or bad, has a lesson I could take away with me.
How did your 40 Under 40 selection help your career?
It is amazing how many people mentioned seeing me in the 40 Under 40 issue. I’ve enjoyed going to networking socials and meeting the newest members, as well. I also appreciate the inclusion of social sector professionals in 40 Under 40. Although we may not be running for-profits, we still need plenty of business acumen, serve in leadership roles, and are creating a better community for everyone to live, work, and play. I’ve also had the opportunity to be a part of some really amazing partnerships between for-profits and nonprofits.
What is something that you have a new passion for since the time of your induction — either professionally or personally?
Although I’ve lived in Wisconsin my entire life, several years ago I decided to just embrace winter weather and get outside. My two active pups make daily dog park trips or hikes pretty much necessary now anyway, so we get outside no matter the weather. When we have a decent amount of snow, I enjoy snowshoeing. Wisconsin has so many wonderful natural areas and two of my favorites, Blue Mound and Devil’s Lake, are such an easy drive from the Madison area.
Based on your experience, do you have any advice for today’s young professionals (under 40)?
Life is short, so love what you do. Don’t be afraid to move on to the next opportunity if you feel stuck or if the organization’s ethics don’t match yours. Find a career path that allows you to have your passion and purpose match your profession, and to be authentic in all parts of your life.
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