What word best describes you?
Authentic
Title
Executive Director
* at time of recognition
Employer
Habitat for Humanity of Marion County
* at time of recognition
Lives In
Pella
Education
Schaumburg High School, Schaumburg, IL
George Washington University (Bachelors of Art, English Major, Economics Minor)
Northwestern University Medill School of Journalism (Masters of Science in Journalism, Broadcast Major)
Activities
CASA (Court appointed special advocate) volunteer
Communication chair on board of Friends of the Pella Public Library
Board of Pella Kiwanis
Working in Marion County
Marion County has so many businesses and individuals who help make Habitat successful. When we have a client who needs a project completed quickly, there’s always a contractor willing to help us get the job done. It’s nice feeling supported by the community.
Living in Marion County
I didn’t grow up where you knew your neighbors or ran into people at the grocery store. I have loved living in Marion County and feeling so deeply connected to my community, where you know the person who runs the small business you’re stopping in at.
Favorite Place to Relax
My family uses the aquatic center (great Saturday morning activity in the winter), the public library and Wonder Spelen on a very regular basis.
I love getting together with friends at de Kelder or the Pub.
Career Opportunities
I did Leadership Red Rock and it was a great opportunity to meet other professionals and hear about all the things Marion County has going on.
Community Favorites
I am always surprised by all that Lake Red Rock has to offer. Even if we just stop there on a summer night to walk on the trails, I feel really lucky to have access to it so close to home
Career Advice to Teens
There is as such variety working in nonprofits as there is in the for-profit world. Whatever your interest or expertise, there can be a role in nonprofits where you can use your skills and KNOW you are making a difference.
Mentor
Lisa Houser
What is your wish for the Red Rock Area?
I wish that Marion County would continue to add new amenities (rec center, restaurants, trails) so that we can continue to attract a broad range of community members.
What is your biggest passion, and why?
Advocating for the poor is my greatest passion. It is often surprising how lower income voices are not represented when decisions are being made so I always try to have “How will this affect our lower income neighbors?” on the forefront of my mind and I’m not afraid to ask that of decision-makers.
3 Hobbies
Showtunes, decorating birthday cakes, planning vacations
