Associate Professor of Management
Director of the Innovation Fellowship
Where did you obtain your degree(s)?
BBA, Tiffin University 2000
MBA Leadership Studies, Tiffin University 2011
Ed.D. Leadership and Innovation, St. Thomas University 2024
My dissertation examined the need for enhanced faculty support in the transition back to in-person teaching following the COVID-19 pandemic.
What did you get your degree in and what inspired that choice?
I earned my undergraduate degree in Business Administration, my MBA in Leadership Studies, and my Ed.D. in Leadership and Innovation. I’ve always valued strong leadership and clear direction, but after earning my MBA and working for a small to mid-sized, family-run business, I experienced firsthand the frustration that comes from a lack of leadership and guidance. That experience inspired me to explore what truly makes an effective leader.
I became deeply interested in understanding how people respond differently to the same information and how leaders can adapt their approach to guide and motivate a wide range of individuals. I also wanted to learn how to help transform organizations with little or poor leadership into ones that thrive under strong, ethical, and effective direction.
My background in Human Resources further fueled my passion for ensuring employees are treated fairly and ethically. Combining my interests in HR and leadership has become a true “sweet spot” for me. I feel fortunate to share these experiences and insights with my students here at Tiffin University—whether they’re in undergraduate, graduate, or doctoral courses.
Tell us about your first job after you graduated from college.
My first job after graduating from college was with a small, family-run business in the horticultural industry, where I served as the Merchandising Manager. It was a wonderful opportunity to put my business knowledge into practice on a smaller scale and to gain the confidence and experience needed to grow professionally.
I worked with that company for ten years, progressing into a VP of Merchandising role before returning to school to pursue my MBA. During that time, I learned a great deal about leadership, teamwork, and the importance of clear communication and direction within an organization. That experience laid the foundation for my passion for leadership and organizational development.
How did your career path lead you to teaching at Tiffin University?
I always thought I wanted to be a teacher, but I chose to major in business. After spending ten years working in the business world, I had the opportunity to pursue my MBA. Following that, I was asked to substitute for an Introduction to Management class—and that’s when I realized I could combine my love of business and leadership with teaching.
It was a full-circle moment for me. My dad spent his career in business, and my mom was a middle school teacher, so I like to say that I’m a blend of both.
How do you prepare students for challenges they’ll face in their careers/after graduation?
I prepare students for their careers by helping them connect classroom learning to real-world application. I emphasize critical thinking, adaptability, and effective communication—skills that are essential in any workplace. Through case studies, discussions, and experiential projects, students learn how to navigate complex situations, work with diverse teams, and approach challenges with confidence.
I also encourage them to see challenges as opportunities for growth. I want them to leave Tiffin not just with knowledge, but with the mindset and leadership skills to handle change, solve problems, and make ethical decisions in any environment.
What makes Tiffin University stand out to you as a faculty member?
What stands out to me most about Tiffin University is the strong sense of community and the genuine care for student success. TU values innovation, collaboration, and real-world learning, which aligns perfectly with my own teaching philosophy. As a faculty member, I appreciate that I can bring my professional experiences into the classroom and help students connect theory to practice in meaningful ways.
How do you incorporate TU’s motto – “Without risk, there is no gain” – into your own life or classroom?
I embrace this motto both personally and professionally. In my own life, pursuing advanced degrees while balancing a career and family required taking calculated risks that led to tremendous growth. In the classroom, I encourage students to step outside their comfort zones—to take risks through ideas, discussions, and projects. I remind them that innovation, leadership, and learning all come from being willing to try, fail, and try again.
What’s a fun fact most people don’t know about you – or an interesting hobby?
People often assume I’m a total extrovert because I’m talkative and love to chat, but in reality, I recharge in quieter ways. My perfect downtime includes binge-watching a TV series, listening to a podcast or audiobook, and just enjoying some cozy, uninterrupted time. I’m completely obsessed with my dog, Teddy, and there’s nothing I love more than going to bed early and sleeping in whenever I can—pure bliss!
What’s your favorite book, film, or quote – and why does it resonate with you?
One of my favorite quotes is by John Quincy Adams: “If your actions inspire others to dream more, learn more, do more, and become more, you are a leader.” This quote resonates deeply with me because it captures the heart of authentic leadership and teaching. Whether in business or education, leadership is about empowering others to grow, and that’s what I strive to do every day with my students.