Women of Inspiration 2025

“It made me feel seen. Being recognized by colleagues is the greatest recognition, especially when it comes from people I have coached and mentored. Cumulatively, I have been at First National for 20 years. This recognition validates my hard work and dedication. It shows me that the way I engage with the team is resonating and making a difference. My two most influential mentors, Marion Klein and Elsa Carter, were so different in their approaches, but equally as impactful for me. They led with intention and by example. I have moved through my career with the intention to mentor and care for people the way I was mentored and cared for.”

“I appreciate being around inspiring women that see something in you. After 27 years in this industry, I still want to grow. First National has created several initiatives to support me in that goal. I joined Women’s Connection, where we have an opportunity to be coached by Michelle Ferrari. It’s a safe space to speak, to hear different perspectives from other women and to receive one-on-one coaching. In the two years I’ve been attending, I have made great strides in holding myself accountable to where I want to be personally and professionally. Women’s Connection motivated me to want more. I stepped outside of my comfort zone and reach for a role that was outside of my scope. And I joined Taking the Stage, which has helped me gain confidence in my public speaking and made me realize the importance of being unapologetic in taking up space.” 

“My grandmother, mother and sister are my inspirations. Helping others is an important value I learned from them. When I was growing up, I aspired to be a teacher or professor. It’s not a coincidence that I ended up in training and management. I’ve spent my career teaching and mentoring others, which brings me a lot of joy and fulfillment. I also think it’s important to be present, be open and have empathy. When I started as a manager, I had a lot to learn. I was able to take what others did before me and apply that knowledge as I was learning. I hope to do the same for people I manage.”

“When I made the cross over to a management position, I had so much support from everyone. My Director, Doug Farmer, was so encouraging. I set goals for myself and had the support I needed to achieve them. I do the same for people I mentor. Listening and understanding where they want to be are the first steps. Once that’s clear, we can work together to move them toward their goals and help them find the courage to step outside of their comfort zones.”

“If you don’t have strong, diverse female voices in the room, in leadership and in the office, you’re missing an important part of the story.” 

“Women’s inclusion contributes to problem solving, innovation and change. It’s so important to continue to break down barriers that have held us back in the past. They may no longer be there physically but they still exist subconsciously. Including women and encouraging them to speak up is our best way forward.”

“It’s so easy for women to make themselves smaller, but at First National women are encouraged to step into themselves and take up space. The contributions of women really help to shape First National’s culture. We have so many inspiring women in management and senior leadership positions.”

“Inclusion gives people the confidence to reach beyond what they think is possible for themselves. I remember being so timid the first time I attended our management conference. But year after year, I watched other managers have the strength and courage to engage, which gave me that strength and courage.”