How long have you been a FCCMA member?
Since 2006
Are you an ICMA member and if so, how long?
Yes, for the past four years.
Please describe your areas of formal/advanced education.
I completed my undergraduate work at Central Michigan University with a Major in Commercial Recreation and Facility Management with a minor in Business Administration. My Master of Public Administration is from Nova Southeastern University. Additionally, I have completed the Graduate Certificate Program in Florida City and County Management program through Florida State University.
How did you become interested in public service?
I had always wanted to be in a service career. My first experience was in the area of resort recreation management. A few years into my career, I re-directed my focus to local government. I wanted to, and still want to, help a community and its constituents prosper. Although some things we do are undetected by the general public, it is wonderful feeling to go home each night knowing the community you serve is better because of the team working behind the scenes.
What is your current occupation?
I am fortunate that I have worked for a city where the Administration believes in developing their staff. Today my title is Projects Director for Administration. In 11 years with Palm Beach Gardens, I have held several different Director positions, including Parks & Recreation, Public Works, Code Enforcement and Building. The experience has been immeasurable and I could not have programmed a career path this wonderful without the support of our Deputy and City Manager. They are exceptional mentors.
Please give a brief job description.
I have the opportunity to work on a variety of special projects and initiatives that address short- and long-term activities for the City.
Please describe your typical day.
My typical day consists of balancing project research and report writing with the typical calendar of meetings, phone calls, and urgent matters. Although each day is different and exciting, I can count on the fact that 5 o’clock comes before I realize it should be the end of the day.
What is your favorite part of the job?
I enjoy the team work approach our city takes to accomplishing issues.
What is your least favorite part of the job?
It doesn’t happen often, but I do not like to be light on work load. I enjoy the progression of projects and how they can affect a community so I am always willing to volunteer to take something new on.
What is your most memorable experience on the job?
Wow, this is hard to answer since as a team we have accomplished so much. If I had to pick a single experience, I would choose when I accompanied several city representatives to La Jolla, California to learn what the Scripps Research Institute was about. This was just prior to their decision to co-locate in Palm Beach County. What I heard from the staff and scientists reaffirmed that working for the public good was the career I wanted.
What are your hobbies/interest?
Though inspiration from some fellow FCCMA runners and friends, I took up running 5K’s and half Marathons three years ago. It’s been a great way to stay fit and enjoy the outdoors.
If you could give one piece of advice to young people interested in a career in public service, what would it be?
A wise City Manager shared with me that “luck is when opportunity meets preparation”… Take every opportunity to learn about areas that you may not be currently working in. Volunteer for every work group you can. Learn and learn some more! Also, it’s important to understand who you are and how you fit into the work group. Constantly scan your work product and ask yourself how it can be better. I can honestly say that every year I learn something that helps me grow professionally and as a leader.
Who were your mentors and how have you passed this information down to other young public administrators?
I have been fortunate to work with some very inspirational and visionary people. The current City and Deputy City Manager I work with have been exceptional mentors. They teach, lead, and allow room for growth. What I have learned from them I have tried to make part of my management style to help young professionals.
Have you always been in the public sector or have you had experience in the private sector?
Early in my career I worked with several resorts and private country clubs. That experience gave me a great framework of customer service and business operations. But, the missing factor was being able to make a difference. That is why I wanted to shift to local government.
What career would you pick if you were to pick another?
I enjoy helping people grow in their careers so I would answer this question by saying a Professor. I’ll add that when I retire, which is a long time from now, I want to be a crew member on the boats at Walt Disney World!
