Professional achievements
• Named a 2023 Q1 SERVPRO One Team MVP Finalist, recognized among 2,300+ franchise locations for outstanding collaboration, leadership and results-driven performance.
• Honored with the PIAAR Claims/Restoration Award for excellence in client service and industry impact.
• IICRC certification in water damage restoration and fire and smoke restoration.
Community involvement
Chair, NLR Connects; former board member, Arkansas Adjusters Association; volunteer bell ringer, Salvation Army.
Biggest obstacle you’ve overcome
“Learning to be comfortable saying, ‘I don’t know.’ Early in my career, especially in the field I’m in, I felt pressure to always have an answer, even if I wasn’t 100% sure. Over time, I realized that it’s OK to admit I don’t know something, and I can build trust and credibility by making a commitment to find the answer.”
A small habit that has helped you succeed
“Saying thank you. Whether it be a handwritten thank-you note to a referral partner or a quick thank you after someone holds the door open, expressing gratitude consistently helps build stronger relationships and keeps me mindful of the little things and people that help along the way.”
What you’re most passionate about in your career
“Having the opportunity to help and support our community members through some of the most difficult times in their lives. In disaster restoration, no one ever plans to need you — but when the call comes in, whether it be at 1 p.m. after a water heater fails or 2 a.m. after a business catches fire, we answer the call with empathy, care and the promise that we are here to help. At the end of the day, it’s about restoring not just the property, but their ability to move forward.”
First job and lessons learned
“My first job was as a cashier in a locally owned grocery store. It was there I learned how crucial mutual respect and genuine customer service are to the success of a business. Being a locally owned store, we had a smaller team, so mutual respect between the staff was essential. I often worked early morning truck days with the same 5 a.m. crew and then turned around to work again on Saturday evenings. Through early morning hours, hot summer days and a large age difference at times, we always came together to get the job done and the store running smoothly. On the customer side, many patrons had shopped there for years — some through name changes, some as former employees and others as visiting fishermen. At one point, there was a fear that a larger competitor would close us, but we continued to work hard — being kind to our customers, offering to carry groceries rain or shine and showing up for our customers made the difference. I’m proud to say that grocery store is still in business today, and I love stopping in when I’m back in town.”
Who you look up to and why
“My parents are my biggest source of inspiration. They instilled in me at a very young age that kindness and the relationships that you foster will take you further than degrees and money ever will. I’ve had the privilege to watch them lead by example — treating everyone with respect, showing up for others and building a life that’s based on intentionality and connection.”
One book everyone should read and why
“’Never Split the Difference: Negotiating As If Your Life Depended On It’ by Chris Voss. This book is a newer read for me, but it gave me a different perspective in my career and personal life. This book will allow professionals, no matter the age, to build stronger relationships, enhance their communication and grow in their negotiation skills. In a world driven by speed and instant gratification, this book teaches you the power of slowing down, thinking strategically and truly listening.”
A word that describes you
“Tenacity”