What is your role at the University of Minnesota? What do you do in a typical day/week?
I am an economic analyst for Extension. My week is split between running numbers, writing reports, and presenting the results to communities. I am a member of the Center for Community Vitality. We collaborate with Minnesota communities on economic development, civic engagement, leadership development, and tourism.
How does your work impact the University community?
I help Minnesota communities use economic data to make critical, yet informed, decisions. In so doing, I am bringing the resources of our University out into communities. I am also helping the public understand the value and the strength of the University of Minnesota.
What do you enjoy most about your role?
I can study the economic impact of just about any industry or activity. In the process, I am constantly learning. Each project gives me the opportunity to explore new things - agbioscience one week, tourism another, and bike trails the next! I am curious by nature, so I love this about my job.
What would people never guess you do in your job?
I spend a considerable amount of my time engaged in community discussions and making community presentations. When I started my job, a colleague informed my office mates that I would probably spend all my time locked in my office conducting analyses and writing reports. Turns out, I spend more time out and about in communities than I do in my office.
People would be surprised if they knew:
I am fairly competitive. If you want me to do my best, just invent a friendly competition, I'll be there.
What do you like best about working at UMN?
My team! I am fortunate to work with a team of people who are passionate about helping Minnesota communities. They are also wicked smart and fun to work with.
Where do you see yourself in 5 years?
In five years, I hope to have continued to increase my profile in Minnesota. Extension has a lot to offer to our communities, but sometimes we are the "best kept secret". I hope to help change that perception.
What is one thing you couldn't live without?
My treadmill. Trust me, you do not want to be around me if I haven't been able to run for a few days.
What do you like to do in your spare time?
I am a mom of 3 elementary and middle-school aged kids, so spare time does not exist. I am a runner - so when I have time, I am out enjoying sunshine and nature while pushing myself to run just a little faster (see my comment about being competitive above).
What was your best vacation?
I always enjoy time spent with my family. We spend a week every summer at a lake in Northern Minnesota. Last year, we visited a few state parks and went underground in the Tower Soudan mine. It was fun to see the mine through the eyes of my kids.