Others would say I am an approachable servant leader with high expectations who works collaboratively to bring out the best skills in everyone.
Why is honoring achievement important? How does it impact our business community?
Great leaders realize that honoring achievement is a reflection of the collective strength of their teams. No achievement is accomplished in a vacuum; achievement requires a collaborative effort across the board to make it a reality. If their teams are performing at a high level, the achievements and accolades will follow.
Also, honoring achievement is important because it provides awareness of what’s possible and creates motivation for others. The next generation of leaders is eager to learn about the work of those who came before them. Without recognition and awards, some of the work that has happened before could go unnoticed. Inspiring aspiration is an important role of any leader.
What is the single most important thing you have learned throughout your career that would inspire others/other women?
One of the most important things I have learned in my career is pretty simple: Treat everyone with kindness and treat them like they matter. No matter who is in the room with me, no matter their title or mine, I try to make everyone feel the same. I learn their name, shake their hand, get to know them and learn what’s important to them.
As a leader, it’s important to get to know your team and colleagues around you on a deeper level than just the work. This provides an opportunity for you to understand what keeps them going and allows them to give their best. It is never lost on me that I did not accomplish my success alone. It has taken the amazing team around me, both professionally and personally.
What do you think we can do – now – to make a difference for young people/women in Arizona?
We must invest our time in young people, help them see their potential and provide opportunities.
The business world is more competitive than ever — a lot of people are looking for the same job. We must do our part in opening the doors for the next generation. You don’t have to be a formal mentor, but you can spare just 30 minutes to an hour of your time. Those few minutes could be a game-changer for them; it could help them see something in themselves they have never noticed before.
We must continue to have honest dialogue with our future leaders to help provide realistic expectations, for everything must be earned and nothing is given in this competitive world. Let’s challenge our young people to be comfortable with being uncomfortable.
In A Few Words
- What was the last course, certification or training you took to improve yourself professionally? I am not sure this was my last professional development but one I am proud of and learned much more than I expected is Valley Leadership.
- What would you say is a single characteristic OTHERS might attribute to you that defines your success? Passion
- What is the one thing you feel you could work on professionally to be a greater success? Patience
- What is the one professional skill you have that has gotten you where you are today? Networking
- What is the single greatest issue facing Arizona today? The traffic to and from the West Valley on the I-10, any day, any time.
About Me
I’ve worked in HR, Community Development and multiple leadership roles at large organizations, and also managed a local corporate foundation. That has led me to where I am today at Phoenix Raceway, being the first Black woman to be president of a NASCAR track.
Yet, my community work is what makes me feel the most fulfilled. I am currently serving as board chair for Valley of the Sun United Way and am an active board member for Boys and Girls Clubs of the Valley. I have also served on the boards of directors for Teach for America, ASU Alumni, Children’s Museum of Phoenix and Ronald McDonald House Charities.
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