Education: North Dakota State University- BS Interior Design and Facilities Management
Employer: AOI Corporation - Omaha, NE
Years in Design: 24
Years in IIDA: 15
City Center: Omaha

What’s the best advice you’ve ever gotten?
It’s not the problem, but how you handle the problem and always use integrity to guide in your decision-making.

What might we find on your desk right now?
My to-do list, a couple of plants, and lip balm.

What’s your favorite project that you’ve worked on and why?
I have so many projects that I have really enjoyed! One that stands out was a new hospital in Fargo, ND (Innovis Health at thetime, now Essentia Health) that was being built while I was an intern. I worked on the Nurse Stations and patient-focused areas under the direction of my mentor. I didn’t realize how much it would open my eyes to healthcare design and influence my career going forward.

What book is on your nightstand?
A Good Neighborhood by Anne Fowler

Who/what sources do you look to for drive and inspiration?
Publications like Contract Design,HCD Magazine, Dezeen.

How have you found IIDA invaluable?
It’s great networking and the events are fun time to catch up with customers, fellow designers and former co-workers. Design events are inspiring, making us all better as designers and citizens within our communities.