I attribute my success to perseverance and hard work, networking, honesty and integrity. I'm not just at my desk. I'm out and about with my people. I'm not above doing anything. I put myself at the bottom to give my staff a good base of support. I would advise young women who hope to advance to be the rock that others can stand on.

With more than 240 locations across the country, The Evangelical Lutheran Good Samaritan Society is the largest not-for-profit provider of senior care and services in the United States. We are honored that more than 27,000 people of all beliefs and faiths call us home.

I chose this career path because at the age of 16 I knew this was a calling for me. At the age of 17, I worked with the developmentally disabled. Becoming a nurse was a natural progression for me. In 1993, I received my bachelor's degree in nursing.

I prepared for this career by obtaining a Master of Science in nursing education and administration from the University of Phoenix in 2003, and my Bachelor of Science in nursing from the Med Center One College of Nursing in 1993. 

My biggest challenge is being able to be strong and independent. I do feel that male nurses are heard more than female and they do move forward more quickly. It is now a totally different mentality than it was when I first started.

My greatest strengths is being an advocate for patients and staff.

Personally, my greatest accomplishments are my three sons and being a long-term treatment foster care parent for six boys. We adopted a 13 year old boy we raised since age 6. He is now 16. We have raised our children, (all sons) to have a strong work ethic and become productive citizens, who treat people with dignity and respect. Professionally, it was obtaining my master's degree and using it to further my career.

I look for continued growth in my family as the children leave the nest and start careers of their own. I look forward to advancing the profession of nursing as a true profession, and not just a hand-maiden to the medical provider.

My inspiration comes from my love and compassion. We say this prayer everyday to let God's love shine in what we do. It is just so rewarding to help those in need.

I want to be remembered for my caring concern for people of all ages.

I am a member of Sigma Theta Tau.

I was included as an Honored Member of Empire Who's Who in the 2004-2005 edition. I was selected to be featured on the Top Female Executives, Professionals and Entrepreneurs site in 2015. I am a member of the International Women's Leadership Association.

After providing in-home treatment foster care for troubled youth for 12 years, we were able to finally adopt  our son. We support local foster care activities, Easter Seals, and the Alzheimer's Association.

I really don't have that much time for me, but I enjoy getting my hair and nails done and taking hot baths. The family enjoys camping, fishing, and baseball. We have a ranch and I enjoy just being there with my spouse and family.