Tell us a little about your business. – To me, the Sarpy Chamber (sarpychamber.org) has always had the feel of a small-town organization while serving an entire county. It’s a place where businesses don’t just grow, they become engaged, connected and part of the community. We help businesses of all sizes build relationships through networking, education and opportunities that create long-term success.
How did you get started in the business? – I started working for the chamber in 2009 as the office manager and eventually transitioned into event management. Over the last 20 years, there aren’t many hats I haven’t worn at the Chamber. Those experiences have given me a unique perspective on both the organization and the community.
What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally? – As someone who is more introverted, building confidence in sales and learning how to engage others professionally was a challenge. I remember the first time someone told me I was a great salesperson—I was completely caught off guard. Over time, I realized sales built through genuine relationships and personal connections fit naturally with who I am.
What has been your most important achievement professionally? – I left the chamber for about five years to pursue another opportunity, and while I loved that role and remain very involved there, being asked to come back to the Chamber was meaningful. It felt like validation of the work I had done and gave me a renewed sense of pride in helping the organization.
Tell us a little about your family. – Family is everything to me. I have two wonderful boys, Jaks and Trey. Jaks recently married my amazing daughter-in-law, Gracey, and just purchased their first home in Grand Island. Trey is finishing high school and getting ready to take on whatever comes next. I also have an incredible partner, Jason Tasler, who keeps me grounded. Through Jason, our family has grown even more with Madison, Kohlton, Jaslyn and her husband Cody, plus two beautiful grandbabies, Cameron and Kendra.
What is your favorite thing to do on a day off? – Spending time at our family cabin is my favorite way to recharge. It’s been in my dad’s family since the 1950s, and while it has evolved over the years, it still feels like home.
What is your favorite quote or the best piece of advice you’ve ever received? – “It’s so much easier to choose happiness than it is to spend your days angry and mad at the world.”
What is your greatest talent that you don’t utilize in your daily work life? – Ha! Probably my unnecessary amount of sports knowledge. Don’t ask me about Formula 1, but most other sports I can hold my own.
What local nonprofit organization(s) are you passionate about or involved with, and are there any special reasons why? – I love our local community foundations and all the amazing work they do, I try and get involved when I can to help them. I also love the guys at the American Legion Post 32 and helping support their fundraisers. I would also be in trouble with my other half if I didn’t mention his and by proxy my involvement in Mustache4Kids Omaha and the amazing work they do each year.
What is your favorite book or the last good book you read? – The Lord of the Rings Trilogy. I read them every year.
If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? – You can reach me at operations@sarpychamber.org.