Who is a leader you admire?

Locally, I think Rachel Dellinger is a total rock star and I want to be like her. She served as president during my first year on the board and made me fall in love with serving YPK. She has an amazing network that she has cultivated throughout the years by investing her passion and energy into her community while being a dependable and competent colleague. Years ago, she taught me to always strive to meet at least three new people at networking events, a tip I keep in mind at networking events still.

Nationally, I’m a fan of strong ladies who use their celebrity platforms well; I’d have lunch with Amy Pohler, America Ferrara or Emma Watson any time.

How do you think Young Professionals of Knoxville contributes to our community?

YPK helps build relationships. This is such a great opportunity for people in the early stages of their careers to meet current and future leaders. I love that YPK networking events aren’t all about handing out business cards; instead, they tend to be social activities, which helps you learn more about other members and develop lasting friendships. It may sound corny, but I truly think Knoxville’s future leaders are in YPK, and I’m thankful to get to know them now.

What has been your favorite memory with YPK?
One of my favorite experiences with YPK was the Leadership Certificate Program. It was an opportunity for self-reflection and personal development unlike any I had experienced before; I feel like the insight I gained about myself and my career aspirations was invaluable and has served me well since the program.

But also, remember that time we all brought our dogs to the monthly social?

What are you currently reading, watching, and listening to?
Reading: Endurance by Scott Kelly, a memoir about his year on the International Space Station

Watching: So You Think You Can Dance and reruns of How I Met Your Mother

Listening to: Getting Curious with Jonathan Van Ness podcast

When you're not at work where can people find you?
On the couch cuddling with cats, in Fountain City walking my dog, or at the rock gym climbing with my husband.