Where did you grow up?  What journey led you to life in Cook County?

I was raised in Omaha, NE, a great place to grow up with good Midwestern values. I studied at St. Olaf College in Northfield, MN, then at the American Academy of Art in Chicago, IL before graduating from Columbia College, also in Chicago. I worked there for a variety of ad agencies, eventually becoming Executive Creative Director & Partner for a creative agency in the Old Town neighborhood.  I enjoyed working with gaming industry accounts, and parlayed that experience into a similar position with a Las Vegas marketing firm that specialized in casino & hospitality companies. That led to a position as Executive Director of Marketing at the Stratosphere. That was a fun, yet challenging switch from creative to strategic leadership. 

My family relocated to Lutsen when I was hired as Marketing Director for Grand Portage Lodge & Casino. Transitioning from the hustle and bustle of Las Vegas and the scorching desert heat to the chilly rural woodlands of northern Minnesota was quite a culture shift. I had visited Wisconsin and Minnesota often during my youth, as a camper and on family vacations. I had also enjoyed the thrill of Boundary Waters canoe adventures, so moving here was like coming back home. 

A little over a year ago, I stepped away from the casino business and into my current position with Cook County MN and North Shore Health. The split position allows me to ply my writing and design skills, and I am now more engaged and integrated with the entire county.

You wear two very busy (and important) hats in the community, working as the Public Information Coordinator for North Shore Health and also as the Public Information Coordinator for Cook County.  How do you do all this juggling throughout your busy day?

It is a unique and rewarding dual role. My office is located at North Shore Health, and I use it as a base to serve both employers. I flip back & forth between two computers, switching hats constantly. While my role is the same, the two entities have completely different missions and messaging. I liken it to former ad agency days when I served clients from completely different industries. The mix of work is a refreshing challenge, and it is rewarding to keep our community up-to-date with useful, accurate and timely information. I enjoy every minute!  

Where is your favorite "go-to" spot in the County when you get a day off for some R & R?

With so many wonderful spots, that’s hard to pin down. We enjoy dining at Bluefin Grille, and the North Shore Winery is a wonderful place to unwind and hear live music. 

There are many times in our life that we may wish we have magical powers.  What would your magical power be and why?

I find that expressing myself through creative endeavors can be magical in a sense. Outside of business communications, I recently wrote and illustrated a novel, and I am currently working on a series of short stories. They are a refreshing escape from of the rigors of day-to-day life. What could be more magical than that?  

What words of wisdom did you receive growing up that stayed with you throughout your life?

My parents and grandparents were never short on advice. They always stressed the importance of a strong work ethic and that has stayed with me throughout my career. 

For anyone considering relocating to Cook County, can you describe three things that may surprise them about life here?

• The scenic beauty is ever-changing. Each season offers unique adventures, opportunities and challenges (dress accordingly). 

• The community is friendly, welcoming and supportive.

• Our business community has a wealth of bright and capable professionals from all over.