What is your role at ILLUME?
I am a Technical Consultant with ILLUME. In this role, I am able to work on a variety of activities, which I truly enjoy. I might be working on an impact evaluation for a project, or I might be interviewing contractors or customers to learn about their experiences with a program. I also support with diversity certifications, human resources, and finance.
Where are you from and where do you live now?
I’m a Midwest transplant; born in the Northeast, raised in the South, attended college in Iowa, and I currently live in Madison, WI. I know how to prepare for hurricanes and blizzards.
Who or what inspires you in your work?
Honestly, the ILLUME family – their passion and curiosity, and how smart everyone is! I learn something new/cool/fascinating every day because each person brings a unique background to the team and ILLUME is an incredibly collaborative environment. From linguistics to equity, smart home protocols to data visualization – the conversation is always interesting and stimulating at ILLUME.
Do you have any pets?
Yes, I have a crested gecko, one dog, and one cat. The crested gecko belongs to my son, but it lives in the house. My German Shorthair Pointer came to us as a highly energetic, ball-obsessed 8-year-old rescue, and 3 1/2 years later, he’s still the same. The cat came to our family by way of my daughter’s science teacher, who rescued the cat as a tiny kitten in the middle of winter. After nursing the kitten back to health, the teacher asked the class if anyone could take the kitten. If no one took the kitten, she would be taking the kitten to the shelter. Of course, my daughter’s hand was the first (and only) hand raised. Four years later, my daughter is at college and I have a cat….and a dog…and a lizard.
What are your favorite hobbies?
I enjoy swimming, kayaking, reading, exploring, cheering on my kids at sporting events, and spending time with family. Basically, I enjoy being active.
What’s your favorite quote or motto?
Wow – this is a tough one for me. I have so many favorites! One favorite is from the Calvin and Hobbes comic strip – Calvin: “It’s a magical world, Hobbes, ol’ buddy…Let’s go exploring!”
What is the best concert you ever attended?
My favorites have been performances at the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo when I was growing up. Each night, after an evening of watching cowboys and cowgirls compete in wrangling, roping, and riding events, the rodeo concludes and the stage is set up for an incredible performance. There’s a show for everyone – Country, Rock, Tejano, Pop….and the atmosphere is always electric.
What is your superpower?
I have a surprising ability to trip over air.
If you could have chosen another career path, what would you be doing?
If I had to choose another career path, I think I would either design rides for Disney or lead eco-adventures in Hawaii.
