What is your background?
I grew up in Gas City, IN and moved to Fort Wayne in 2011 to attend PFW. I completed my undergrad there in Business Marketing & Management. In 2019 I earned a MBA from Indiana Tech. While finishing my undergrad, I began an internship at Steel Dynamics in the Human Resources department and I still work there today.
Please describe your committee's programming.
I co-chair the NextGen Leadership Institute. The program connects students, from nine local universities, and young entrepreneurs together for a two-day program covering both personal and professional development topics
How did you first get involved with YLNI?
I got connected with YLNI in 2018 by participating in the Leadership Institute. I found the program to be very impactful and joined the planning committee the following year. In 2019 the NextGen Leadership Institute was founded and I began co-chairing the program. This year I participated in the Power Lunch Series, providing an opportunity to connect with a community leader and my peers. In addition to Leadership Development, I enjoy attending Hot Spots and Meet Ups.
Are you involved with any other community engagement activities in the area?
Outside of YLNI, I am a member of the Emerging Leaders Alliance (ELA) in conjunction with the Regional Opportunities Council. I am passionate about economic development in the Northeast Indiana Region, driving my involvement in both YLNI and the ELA. I also volunteer with Junior Achievement, The Brandon Foundation and Pine Hills Church in pursuit of mentoring the next generation of leaders.
If you were to create a slogan for your life, what would your slogan be?
Someone I admire often says no to the good so you can say yes to the best, and that has really become a mantra for me. You will always be pulled in 100 directions – volunteer for this organization, join this non-profit board, consider this job opportunity. It’s easy to fall into the trap of being a “yes man”. When you learn it’s okay to say no to some good things, you will find you have more time to say yes to great things.
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