What led you to run for the NASW Iowa Chapter Board?

I was asked to, but am grateful as I feel I can make a difference on a macro level as well as micro.

How did you decide to go to social work school?

I had been introduced to “therapy” in a very tumultuous time in my life when I needed it, and decided that I wanted to give back somehow. Returning to school at age 40 was a challenge, and it “steered” me in this direction.

When did you realize that social work is the profession for you?

When I started to find out how many different ways social workers can help people and what we can do.

If you could give one piece of advice to social work students, what would it be?  

Be diverse and learn as many cultures as possible. Be open, not in a box.

If you could give one piece of advice to new social workers, what would it be?  

Learn and experience as many different facets of social worker as you can. Do what you don’t know to learn more.

What’s your favorite way to unwind after a long week?

Get on my motorcycle and ride, watch basketball, take vacations. Play with my dog.

A client appointment or a meeting is cancelled 15 minutes for it was scheduled to begin:

              How are you likely to spend that “found” hour?

              Rest and recharge.

              What would be your preferred way to spend that “found” hour?

              Rest and recharge.

If you were granted 3 wishes, what would you wish for? 

Less hate in the world, more connectedness. More energy and stamina. To be healthier.

From whom do you seek consultation when you need it?

My former supervisor.

You’ve won the Lottery. It’s a lifechanging amount of money. 

              What would you do differently?

             Give in ways that are meaningful and helpful. Take more trips.

              What would you keep the same?

              Probably stay in the same town.

If you were not a social worker, what would be your fantasy career?

Acting, or performing.

What book are you reading right now?

Matthew Perry Friends, Lovers and the Big Terrible Thing: A Memoir

What’s on your playlist?

It varies between country and classic rock, much depends on mood.

What do you binge watch?

Crime stories.