Professional background
Upon graduation from Iowa State University in community health education, I started my career at the American Cancer Society in St. Paul, MN. From there I moved back to Iowa to earn my degrees at DMU while working at the Iowa Department of Public Health (IDPH). At IDPH I was introduced to the world of public health and healthcare preparedness. I took a short break and worked for the Iowa Foundation for Medical Care on physician quality reporting initiatives only to return to disaster preparedness. I am now the executive director for the Safeguard Iowa Partnership, and I work with the business community and government agencies to prevent, prepare for, respond to, and recover from disasters through a public-private collaboration.
Favorite part of my job
The opportunity to engage with people working throughout the state from government and private businesses dedicated to making Iowa a safe place to live, work and play.
Why I stay involved with DMU
Most of all I enjoy working with a great group of alumni dedicated to the growth and advancement of the health sciences program at DMU.
Advice to those just starting out in the profession
Find a mentor who can show you leadership and provide guidance.
Hobbies
Volunteering at the Ronald McDonald House and National MS Society, exercising, reading, traveling and most of all spending time with my friends and family.
