As the Farm and Community director, I oversee a team that works on projects including programs that assist beginning farmers, Native communities, local meat processors, schools, and much more. My role is to support the team’s work, ensuring they have the resources they need to make a real difference in communities across Nebraska and southwest Iowa.

Rural America is vital to the strength of our economy—our food, resources, and much of our workforce come from these areas. Rural communities also produce resilient leaders who know how to get things done with limited resources. Supporting rural areas ensures they have the infrastructure, resources, and environment needed to thrive and attract new families. Being part of the Center team lets me focus on addressing this gap and providing the essential support rural areas need.

My career began as an AmeriCorps VISTA volunteer, and since then I’ve gained extensive experience in workforce development. Most recently, I oversaw all the Nebraska Department of Labor field offices and served as the Administrator/Executive Director for the Greater Nebraska Workforce Development Area. I’ve also worked with at-risk youth, in homeless services, supporting individuals experiencing homelessness or transitioning into housing to achieve financial self-sufficiency and in reentry, helping individuals transitioning from incarceration with financial literacy and employment preparation.

There’s something incredibly rewarding about being part of a team that is not only making a difference but also empowering individuals and communities to thrive. It’s a privilege to be involved in projects that directly improve people’s lives and contribute to the long-term sustainability of rural communities.

I was raised in rural areas, spending much of my childhood in Rock Port, Missouri, where my grandparents lived. These days, my children keep me busy with Scouts, dance, and sports like soccer, softball, volleyball, and basketball. I enjoy gardening and add something new to my garden to experiment with each year. In my free time, I also like experimenting with new recipes, painting, and reading.

Q&A

What is your favorite way to relax or unwind?

I enjoy being outside and spending quiet weekends with my children. I used to camp quite a bit and recently took my littles for their first campout, which they loved.

What is one piece of advice you have never forgotten?

Leadership is about support, not authority. It’s treating people with respect, understanding who they are, and helping them believe in themselves so they can grow and succeed. Clear communication is essential - be open to uncomfortable conversations, address challenges directly, and create space for honest conversations. Great leaders value diverse perspectives, welcome contributions, and recognize the strengths that differences bring. Surround yourself with people who think differently than you and work to learn as much from them as you hope they will learn from you. Ultimately, leadership is about fostering growth, collaboration, and trust.

If you could travel anywhere in the world, where would you go, and why?

I'd choose a destination where I can explore new perspectives, connect with diverse people, and immerse myself in natural beauty. Right now, that would be New Zealand's South Island for its beautiful landscapes, unique cultural heritage, and opportunities for adventure and reflection.