How did you find your way to advancement and your role right now?
I found my way into a career in advancement at a young age. I didn’t know that I was doing advancement and philanthropy work back then, but as a young person I enjoyed meeting people, building relationships, and selling the most candy bars in school fundraisers. I have always been competitive and have always had a huge interest in learning about people.
In college, I was president of multiple student organizations as well as SGA. The events and fundraising activities came natural for me. I had so much fun being involved in leadership and philanthropy that I quickly gained an interest in higher education, especially around annual giving and alumni affairs. However, I started my higher education career in student affairs then combined that with alumni affairs later at two community colleges in Louisiana. And then finally found myself at a third community college in Louisiana, fully immersed in the advancement field where even the longest and toughest days still keep me wanting more!
What's one career lesson you'd pass along to someone who works in advancement at a community college?
Take time to get to know people and listen to them, as everyone has some sort of value to add to you and your work. Relationships are very important and knowing how to navigate them is even more valuable in the work of advancement professionals within community colleges. These relationships can help you be flexible and nimble when needed, as well as pivot when you need to make a bold move for your college, students, and the community in which you serve.
What's one work achievement that you're particularly proud of?
In my current role, I am particularly proud of the team I have created. When I first started at my current community college, I was a team of one. Not sure what I was thinking, but I took on the challenge knowing I had tons of opportunities to create the best advancement team in the nation. Without them, I would be nothing. Today, I have a team of individuals who are passionate about our mission and our goals, and we are stronger and bolder than ever before.
What's the best part of your job?
The best part of my job is working with the most talented and passionate people within our college and our community. I am energized by having conversations with people about Fletcher and how amazing our students are. Knowing that my impact in advancing the college and our students makes me proud every day to give back to our college and our community.
What’s your favorite spot on campus?
My favorite spot on campus is the Chancellor’s office. Believe it or not! Call me different, but I love to have coffee with her, as well as informal conversations around our fundraising strategy, community colleges, and higher education in general. We are like co-pilots in a twin-engine plane. In my opinion, we are the perfect team reaching our cruising altitude in advancement every day!
What role has CASE played in your career development?
CASE has played a major role in my career development. The resources online have been very valuable and the connections I have made through conferences and workshops have been priceless. I have attended our district conferences twice now, as well as the new vice president in advancement conference. I am looking forward to attending the conference for community college professionals later this year. In Spring 2019, I was honored to be elected as CASE Louisiana State Director for District IV.