Tell us a little about your business. – The Greater Omaha Chamber (omahachamber.org) is a member organization dedicated to helping businesses succeed. We offer programs that help businesses develop, stay competitive in a changing market, and find and grow talent. We also create year-round opportunities for members to build relationships that lead to partnerships, referrals and new business. Alongside this work, we advocate for our members on public policy and help strengthen the region’s economy by attracting new businesses to the area.
The Chamber’s events team oversees our signature conferences and awards programs, as well as our networking series. Our team creates memorable and engaging experiences that foster meaningful connections and provide fresh, relevant content to support business and professional growth.
How did you get started in the business? – My path into events began while in college. Attending music competitions and festivals gave me the opportunity to work with well-known artists and sparked an interest in the work happening behind the scenes. Helping organize the Great Plains Jazz Festival and Jazz Camp, along with several other events, led to a role at the Strauss Performing Arts Center and laid the foundation for my career in events.
What has been your most important achievement professionally? – Knowing our work helps others succeed is something I am proud of.
What is your favorite thing to do on a day off? – On a day off, I enjoy spending time with my spouse, Greg, and our dog, Millie, whether we are exploring somewhere new or simply enjoying time together. We also enjoy cheering on our nieces and nephew at their games, performances and other activities.
What is the most unique or interesting thing about you that most people probably don’t know? – My degree is in music performance, with a focus on classical and jazz.
What is your favorite quote or the best piece of advice you’ve ever received? – Being told “no” or “you can’t do that” does not have to be the end of the conversation. Some of my greatest growth has come from continuing to work, learn and develop until I could accomplish something that once seemed out of reach. My mindset has always been to keep going, keep learning and let the results speak for themselves.
What is your greatest talent that you don’t utilize in your daily work life? – Outside of work, I have developed a talent for caring for plants. My collection includes more than 200 houseplants, and I love discovering different varieties, learning about their genus, origins and unique characteristics, and understanding the care each one needs to thrive. Someday, I would love to incorporate live plants into one of our events.
If you could choose any other profession to be successful in, what would it be? – If I chose another profession, I would run an animal rescue and sanctuary. I have always loved animals and would find it incredibly rewarding to provide a safe place for those in need to heal, receive care and find loving homes.
What local nonprofit organization(s) are you passionate about or involved with, and are there any special reasons why? – Habitat for Humanity of Omaha. The organization helps families achieve affordable homeownership while also supporting home repairs and stronger neighborhoods. A safe, stable home can provide security and a strong foundation for a family’s future while strengthening the Greater Omaha community as a whole.
If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? – You can visit our website at omahachamber.org.