Meet Tara Simons, Membership Investment Manager at the Sarpy Chamber of Commerce (sarpychamber.org).

Tell us a little about your business. – The Sarpy Chamber of Commerce is a vibrant organization dedicated to supporting businesses and fostering economic growth in Sarpy County and beyond. Through networking events, professional development opportunities and advocacy, the Sarpy Chamber connects local businesses and helps them thrive.

What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally? – The biggest challenge I’ve faced professionally has been overcoming my lack of confidence. As a single mom raising two kids, I was afraid to take risks because I had two people depending on me. This fear of making mistakes or taking chances held me back, but over time, I learned to push through the uncertainty and take the necessary steps to advance in my career.

What has been your most important achievement professionally? – My most important professional achievement in my career was winning Account Executive of the Year award at a previous employer. I worked incredibly hard and was competing against my team members who were highly accomplished, so it was a proud moment to be recognized for my efforts.

Tell us a little about your family. – I am a proud mom of two children. My daughter is a student at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln (UNL), and my son is currently serving in the Marines. I also have a brother, and my parents reside in Michigan.

What is your favorite thing to do on a day off? – Go on a hike.

What is the most unique or interesting thing about you that most people probably don’t know? – I have a deep passion for volunteering and mentoring, which I’ve been doing for over 20 years. It’s something that drives me personally and professionally, and it’s shaped the way I connect with others and approach community and relationship building.

Who inspires you? – My children. I want to be the best version of myself, so I can help them be the best version of themselves.

What is your favorite quote or the best piece of advice you’ve ever received? – “People don’t care how much you know until they know how much you care.” – Theodore Roosevelt

If you could choose only one descriptive word to be remembered as, what would it be? – Kind

If you had a theme song, what would it be? – “Eye of the Tiger”

If you could have a super power, what would it be? – The ability to instantly understand and speak any language. This would allow me to connect with people from all backgrounds and cultures, fostering better communication and understanding.

If you could choose any other profession to be successful in, what would it be? – It would be a detective. I’ve always been intrigued by solving mysteries and uncovering the truth. The challenge and satisfaction of piecing together clues to solve a case would be incredibly rewarding.

If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? – (402) 339-3050, sarpychamber.org, and grow@sarpychamber.org.