Tell us a little about your business. – The Sarpy Chamber (SarpyChamber.org) is all about fueling local prosperity for the five cities we cover. We act as the resource and support system for businesses in those communities, from brand new startups to established corporations. We help them gain visibility, connect with potential customers and partners through networking, and provide the tools they need to thrive in the local economy.

How did you get started in the business? – I got started through the most reliable source: networking and community relationships. I was fortunate to be introduced to the Chamber by Annisa Visty of the La Vista Community Foundation, who previously worked at the Chamber. That introduction was how I got my foot in the door.

What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally? – The biggest professional challenge I’ve faced was the post-graduation job search. It was difficult finding an employer willing to take a chance on a new college graduate. I had the knowledge and the skills from my education, but my applications were rejected because I lacked the professional experience. The challenge was convincing someone to look past the empty “experience” box and give me an opportunity.

What has been your most important achievement professionally? – A major highlight of my work has been the effort to publish the Sarpy Chamber Annual Directory. I took ownership of the project, managing every stage until the directories officially began hitting mailboxes on October 1. Seeing months of planning come together in tangible product is fulfilling, but the real satisfaction is from seeing my own artwork and design throughout the entire publication.

Who inspires you? – Definitely the women in my family. They continue to teach me the true meaning of integrity and kindness. They live out their values with everyday choices. Whether it’s the unconditional love they show or the high standard of honesty they maintain, they have provided a blueprint for a well-lived life.

What is your favorite quote or the best piece of advice you’ve ever received? – I actually have two pieces of advice that I have always carried with me. The first is from my grandpa who says, “Remember who you are, remember who you represent,” and the second was from my great grandpa who always said, “Say what you mean, mean what you say.”

If you could choose any other profession to be successful in, what would it be? – I would choose to be an interior designer. It was a path I seriously considered before committing to marketing, and I still have a deep passion for the field. In many ways, it’s like marketing: both roles require me to create a visually appealing and functional space—whether it’s a room or a digital experience—that intentionally impacts how people feel and interact with their surroundings.

What is your favorite book or the last good book you read? – My latest obsession has been the “Dungeon Crawler Carl” series by Matt Dinniman. It’s a fantasy LitRPG following a man and his ex-girlfriend’s cat as they survive an alien-run, global dungeon game show after Earth’s destruction.

What is your favorite movie? – My favorite movie is the horror thriller “Hush” (2016). The movie frequently dives into the silent, visually driven world of its deaf protagonist, Maddie, making you experience the terror exactly as she does. It’s a masterclass in tension, where the absence of sound becomes the most terrifying element of all.

If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? – You can email me via sarpy@sarpychamber.org.