Position: Manager
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Where did you grow up?
I have moved quite a few times growing up. I spent the majority of the time in Pewaukee, Wisconsin and prior to that, I lived in Exton, PA and Green Bay, Wisconsin. This would explain why I’m a Packers fan!
I went to Winona State in Minnesota. I entered undecided and initially thought I was going to do art therapy. For quite a few years my dad had been struggling with nephrotic syndrome, a kidney disorder, which required a kidney transplant. I went through testing at Mayo Clinic in Minnesota to see if I could be a donor. I got to speak with transplant coordinators and was fascinated by the overall organ transplant process. The experience got me interested in healthcare. Come to find out, Winona had a great nursing program and that is how I ended up getting a bachelor’s degree in nursing.
Why did you decide to make the switch into consulting from nursing?
When I worked at Northwestern Memorial Hospital, we had a nursing governance structure. I became chair of the finance committee which examined the financial aspects of providing patient care that clinicians are usually unaware of. I found it interesting and eventually got my MBA and became a healthcare consultant. I wanted to help healthcare organizations become more efficient while maintaining high quality patient care.
What, if anything, do you miss about nursing?
Without doubt, the interaction with patients and their families. I loved forming relationships with them by hearing their stories and getting to know them on a personal level. It also provides a unique perspective on life when you are caring for people with health issues.
How did you know what you wanted in a company? When I decided it was time to get back into consulting, I realized I did not want the typical hectic travel schedule – I am a mom of 3 busy kids! I was looking for companies that promote flexibility with travel but still maintain strong client relationships. Pathstone provided this option and in addition has remarkable employee engagement with an overall excitement for the company.
What has been your favorite thing about working at Pathstone?
Internally, I would say the people, our overall team dynamic and culture is so supportive. Even though we might be on different clients, everyone is willing to help each other, which does not happen everywhere. Externally, we have a partnership with our clients where they genuinely appreciate us and our work. They view us as an extension of their team; which is validated by continuing to want to engage with us.
What is one thing you’re good at/proud of, but doesn’t really matter to anyone else?
Being able to be a role model for not only my kids, but other young people that want to start families and work full-time. Being a working parent has its struggles and you often think “this is impossible”. I want to show everyone that it is possible, and hopefully someday my kids will say “my mom is a badass”.