My journey into business began with a passion for the arts. After years of dedication to performance, I discovered a new calling while working for the Walt Disney World Company, where I gained invaluable insights into business practices through Disney University. Later, my experience at American Airlines further deepened my understanding of operational excellence and customer-centric strategies. These formative experiences piqued my interest in transitioning from the stage to the boardroom, sparking a lifelong passion for leadership and innovation in business.
With over 20 years of leadership experience and a track record of driving operational excellence, I have cultivated a career centered on innovation and strategic growth. As CEO of Commercial Filter Service, Inc., I led the company to become a multimillion-dollar enterprise, earning recognition as Innovator of the Year for developing software that revolutionized our operations. Inspired by a shared vision for transformative technology, I joined Nice Technologies as one of the founding supporters, bringing my expertise in financial oversight, fundraising, and strategic planning to my role as CFO.
During my time at Nice Technologies, I’ve worked closely with the team to help secure our first round of funding, enabling us to expand marketing efforts, secure office space, and launch our website and demo for our innovative insurance modeling software. My leadership has been instrumental in laying the foundation for the company’s growth and success.
Beyond my work at Nice Technologies, I’ve been fortunate to serve as an advisor to startups across diverse sectors. These ventures have ranged from a retail nonprofit that empowers women in developing countries through business training to a vintage rental company and now an InsurTech startup. Each experience has strengthened my understanding of the unique challenges and opportunities in launching and scaling businesses.
I hold a bachelor’s degree in Business with a focus in finance, accounting, economics, and marketing, as well as an MBA, which have been instrumental in shaping my approach to leadership and strategy. These academic foundations continue to inform my ability to navigate complex financial landscapes and drive strategic decision-making.
Philanthropy and community building are also core to who I am. As an executive leader and former President of the Rotary Club of Fort Wayne, I played a pivotal role in the club’s centennial projects, including the completion of a new middle school in Togo, West Africa. I’ve also had the privilege of serving as a keynote speaker at conferences both in the Midwest and internationally, sharing insights and stories tied to my work with Rotary International.
Outside of work, I find joy in painting, drawing, and working with acrylics. I also enjoy spending time with my husband, Tyler, and our Golden Retriever, Winston. We are currently expanding our family through adoption and eagerly looking forward to the adventures ahead. Whether solving puzzles, volunteering, or role-playing in a D&D campaign, I find fulfillment in life’s simple moments, creative outlets, and the relationships that make them meaningful.