Occupation?
Marketing & Community Coordinator for Chattanooga Technology Council
College/University attended?
The University of West Georgia, Bachelor’s of Fine Arts, concentration in Photography
Tell us a little about you (short bio ~150 words).
Originally from North Georgia, I headed to Carrollton for college where I met my mentor in photography, Tim McClain. I loved working with Tim at the studio but knew I had to get out and see the world! I then moved to Northern California and lived there for almost 7 years. There I worked with, volunteered, and/or was invited to be a board member with over 8 nonprofits. My marketing experience of 12 years spans from digital and social media to content creation and event campaigns. I grew up visiting Chattanooga and I am excited to come back and immerse myself in all the newness Chattanooga has to offer.
What motivates you?
Being a good human! I know it sounds cliché, but in these times, being the best you can be every day makes the world a better place.
When you’re not working, where and how do you spend your time?
Being new to Chattanooga, I like to explore all Chattanooga has to offer! Some great friends just introduced me to JMac’s; that place is amazing! But on a rainy Sunday, I do enjoy walking around The Hunter and enjoying their beautiful collection.
What advice do you have for women aspiring to be leaders in their field?
Be brave, be bold, be you! Don’t let the bad get you down and keep going. All your hard work will be worth it in the end to accomplish your goals.
Can you name a person who has had a tremendous impact on you as a leader? Why and how did this person impact your life?
She was once my boss now she’s like a sister, Heather River owner of Bespoke and Atelier in Truckee, California. Heather really pushed me to be a part of the community when I first moved to Northern California. Since I’ve known her, she now runs two businesses, has a farm with sheep, chickens, 3 dogs, a greenhouse, she raises 2 boys and is active in local nonprofits and volunteers (the rest of her spare time) at her children’s school. Our discussions always lead to her pushing me to see the better picture, and she always encouraged me to be a bolder person and better leader, employee, friend in anything I did. She also is a great leader herself, but she would never say so.
What has been your proudest moment in your career?
Actually turning down work, believe it or not! Over time, I had built a great portfolio and people were asking me to do projects I just could not do, even though I wanted to. It was a bummer I could not help them but was grateful they thought of me to work with.
What strides do you think members can take to make more of a difference in women’s leadership issues in the local community?
Make the time. Everyone is busy, but you have to take the time for things that are important. Don’t be afraid to speak up and fight for the things that are important to you. If everyone does their part, we can all make our community better and inclusive to everyone.
How would you best describe the benefit found in joining this organization?
The programs and the networking opportunities that are offered by CWLI are amazing! There is always something to be involved with or to be a part of!