What is your hometown? Zearing, IA
Occupation and company you work for? Director of Communications, Key Cooperative
Do you have a fun fact about your business or something you’re doing at your business that you’re excited about? As a result of last year’s derecho, Key had some significant rebuilding to do. However, rather than simply rebuilding what was damaged, Key’s leadership evaluated what our growers really need 10-15 years from now. This resulted in an investment of nearly $45 million back into our facilities for our member-owners’ future!
What is your role with the NEDC, and how long have you been involved? I’m currently serving as President. I’ve been involved with NEDC for more than 10 years.
What is the most interesting or incredible thing you have learned about local economic development by being involved in the NEDC? Nevada is in a prime location for new business (both industrial & commercial) in Iowa, and we are very well-known by the economic professionals in the State of Iowa.
Why do you continue to be involved in local economic development? Why is this an important issue for you? I’m a team-oriented person so being able to collaborate on something that has such an impact on our community/county is what I consider my legacy.
What other involvements do you have in the local community/county? I’m a member of the Nevada Rotary Club, where I serve as the Youth Exchange Program coordinator. I’m a board member for the Nevada Foundation, currently working on the Nevada Fieldhouse campaign.
What are your favorite pastimes/hobbies? Any outside exercise – walking, running, biking, hiking, kayaking, and sports. I love to garden- both flowers & vegetables. I’m a member of a book club in Nevada, so I also enjoy reading.
Who are the members of your family? Husband, Troy; Will (14), Olivia (12)
What is something fun about you that only your high school or college friends would probably know? I married my high school sweetheart, who also had my mom as a 3rd-grade teacher.
If you had only one hour a week to watch TV, what would you watch? Nothing, I could live without a TV!
What has 2020 taught you? Great change can bring great efficiencies.