How many years have you been in the school business profession?
25 years!
How did you first learn about and then become involved in the school business profession?
When I was young and working at a local bank, a neighboring district’s school treasurer left so I called to ask about the position. The nice lady said, “Oh, I didn’t know you had your school treasurer’s license.” Then I saw an employment ad for a fiscal services liaison at the local A-site with the words “will help you obtain your treasurer’s license.” I applied, got the job, got my treasurer’s license, learned a lot about the software, and was hired as school treasurer two years later. Best life change for me and my family!
What is your proudest career accomplishment?
I was in a district that had a bit too much cash at the time and we decided to spend that money to renovate and add to current buildings and tear down an old building. It was good to see the dollars spent in a concrete manner that has a lasting impact on that district.
What do you feel is the most important part of your job?
Most important part of our jobs as school treasurers is to keep everything in order and be transparent about what is happening. It is a good feeling when someone asks a question and I can say: here is that information for you.
What is one thing you feel makes your position unique in the state?
Every district in the state is unique because school culture is driven by local boards of education and the community values.
What is something your colleagues would be surprised to learn about you?
Many of my colleagues are surprised to know that I like to sew clothes and to piece quilts. I have sewed since I was a kid but never had much time or space for that while raising a family. When I worked at the Sauder Village in high school, I made the dresses I wore to work. Hopefully someday I can sew clothes and outfits for grandchildren or great-nieces and great-nephews.
Favorite TV Show?
Anything on Hallmark Channel
Favorite Movie?
Sweet Home Alabama and Top Gun
Favorite Food?
Dark Chocolate
What is one of your favorite expressions?
"It's amazing what you can do when you don't know it can't be done." Erie J Sauder (1904-1997)
When someone finds out what you do, what's one of the first questions they always ask you?
People who don't work in schools always ask me if I work in the summer months. Actually, people who work in schools also ask me that same question.
What has been the best, or your favorite part, of being involved in OASBO?
I am happy that I have work so many years in a great industry where we all work together to be better and to do better for our schools. The best part is having groups of people to reach out to with questions or concerns. As a treasurer, I appreciate OASBO for all of the seminars and webinars about the current events plus the back-to-basics topics.