How many years have you been in the school business profession?
8
How did you first learn about and then become involved in the school business profession?
A longtime high school friend played a big role in how I ended up where I am today. When I started college, I originally focused on marketing, but eventually switched to accounting. After graduation, I was juggling 2 and 3 jobs, just trying to figure things out. Around that time, my high school friend Crystal King-Morrison and another friend Cathy, who was getting ready to retire, reached out and asked if I’d be interested in a position. Now looking back It feels like a spontaneous decision, but I said, “Why not?”
That’s how I started working with Crystal at the Geauga ESC. We often refer to those early days as the “good ole days.” And when things get tough now, I like to joke with her that she’s the one who got me into this mess! But in all seriousness, I truly believe things happen for a reason, and I’m exactly where I’m meant to be.
Crystal and I had years of friendship before this, but our bond has only deepened since I entered the world of education. Thank you, Crystal!
What is your proudest career accomplishment?
This question is difficult for me to narrow down. I am proud of every step I have taken to get to this point, and honestly, in many ways, I feel I am just getting started! I do not like to focus on a single accomplishment, but reflect on the steps that got me here and the people who walked with me along the way. Those who helped pave the way, change my direction for the better, or helped me fully understand the meaning of doing what's right, what's best, and ultimately what produces an impactful life/career. I am hopeful that one day I will be proud to know I made a meaningful impact on education and our next generation.
What do you feel is the most important part of your job?
It really goes without saying but the youth - our next generation! While I do not have a direct impact on their day to day life in education like a teacher or other school administrator would. I feel it is rewarding being a vital part in assigning the responsibility to create a stable foundation. Every day I make decisions, and these decisions are a huge part of a community's culture. The decisions being made now need to be the ones that allow my district to last for generations, long after I am gone. I feel that is a very important aspect of my job.
What is one thing you feel makes your district unique in the state?
What truly makes a district unique is its community, and mine is a special blend of history, hard work, and small-town charm. My district encompasses Hiram, Mantua, and Shalersville, which came together to create Crestwood in the 1950s - each contributing to a rich local identity. We’re proud to be home to Hiram College, which has been part of our community since 1850, and we’re surrounded by wide-open farmland and natural beauty.
Our area also has significant sand and gravel deposits, which provide jobs for many residents. Interestingly, when those companies complete their work, they return the land to its natural state, which often creates lakes in the process. This gives us a picturesque mix of farmland and scenic lake properties that define our landscape.
Despite our size, our little towns have produced some remarkable individuals. Jack Lambert, a former Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker and iconic member of the 'Steel Curtain' defense of the late 1970s and early '80s. For fans of the TV show Alone, you might recognize Britt Ahart, who, fun fact, also drove one of our school buses between his appearances on the show!
All in all, my district embodies the classic small-town spirit. Everyone knows each other, and when it matters most, they come together like only small towns can. It’s those enduring qualities of community, pride, and connection that make this place so special.
What is at the top of your professional bucket list?
I’ve never been one to seek personal accolades, so my bucket list is less about recognition and more about impact. I hope to one day be known as a treasurer who made a meaningful difference, not only for my district, but also for my colleagues and the state as a whole.
It’s important to me to play a role in helping develop other successful school finance administrators. If I can contribute to their growth and success, I’ll consider that one of my greatest accomplishments. Ultimately, I just want to be seen as a great treasurer and, more importantly, a great person within this profession.
I know I still have many years ahead to learn and grow into that vision of "the great treasurer." For now, I’m focused on the personal aspect: staying grounded, building relationships, and continuing to do good work every day.
What is something your colleagues would be surprised to learn about you?
Many people know I enjoy golfing. But what some do not know is that yes, I do have a hole-in-one! It’s hard to beat being out on the course on a nice day with good company. For me, it’s the perfect way to escape reality for a few hours.
I have a deep love for history, especially American History, and I enjoy visiting museums or taking any opportunity to learn something new.
Before I transitioned into education, and while still in college, I was actually studying to become a gemologist. This is where I developed my love for jewelry/ stones/ metals. One of my favorite gems is morganite, but I have not gotten a chance to own one of my own just yet.
A few more fun facts about me: I have above-average tie-dye skills, and I enjoy photography, although lately, I haven’t had as much time for it as I’d like.
If you were an animal, what animal would you be?
A honey bee! Having the ability to fly, enjoy beautiful flowers sounds wonderful. More than that, to be that soldier bee restlessly working to produce one of the most versatile foods/remedies in life. Most importantly, being the pinnacle of all life seems like the most precious and rewarding time spent on earth.
Favorite TV Show?
I am not much of a TV person, but I have a few.....an oldie but goody - How I Met Your Mother. I do have a guilty pleasure, not for the Yellowstone series but the Yellowstone prequels. I also loved Mad Men, Good Girls, and The Good Wife.
Favorite Movie?
Elf! Who couldn't learn a few things from Buddy?
Favorite Food?
Steak Salad with Balsamic Dressing
Your favorite expressions?
Some favorites would be:
"Well-behaved women seldom make history"- Laurel Thatcher
"You must never be fearful about what you're doing when it's right"- Rosa Parks
A quote I have put together to navigate the crazy world of parenting..... I tell my daughters: "Always do what's right because when all else fails you do not have to live with regret too." I think this resonates more so with my oldest (16) at this point
Not mine but my husband's, and he sends our youngest daughters off every day by saying, " Be nice, be kind, and make someone smile today". They are 7 and 3, and it makes sense to them.
When someone finds out what you do, what's one of the first questions they always ask you?
Not so much the questions but the comments such as... "It must be so nice to have the summers with your girls" (I have 3! 16yrs, 7yrs, and 3yrs). I begrudgingly but kindly reply "No, it's actually quite the opposite-its just another one of my busy seasons." Or I have also gotten "I didn't know schools have treasurers- do you mean your in the PTO." I will be honest, this one made me laugh and I just responded.... "Something like that"
What has been the best, or your favorite part, of being involved in OASBO?
The network! The people, the support, the knowledge base!! What we have is something unique. Most importantly, I enjoy the collaboration and the overall desire to see everyone succeed for the common good. I enjoy seeing others succeed, whether it be that treasurer landing that dream job, someone taking that next step up for the first time, or finally getting the chance to retire after many years of successes and downfalls. I have built some of my deepest friendships that have carried on past that one office we used to work in. Seeing my colleagues with whom I shared space excelling and doing things they only ever imagined and surpassing their expectations across many districts is a rewarding experience.