My journey to be an advisor was always influenced by the women in my life. It was my grandmother who gave me my start with a $5,000 gift upon graduation from high school to encourage me to attend college. My mother recommended I invest the funds and helped me start my first mutual fund investment. Seeing the money grow and using it to help pay for school helped grow a feeling of empowerment in me.
My first job out of college was working in the call center at the same credit union I still work at 23 years later. The advisors in the office invited me to go to lunch and talk about the basics of investing. A passion for financial planning was born. I had strong and supportive women in management who advocated for me when opportunities arrived and fostered my career growth.
More recently, my husband and I celebrated our 20th wedding anniversary. And, I have two teenagers at home who keep me running with their activities. I’m so thankful I found this profession that allows me the flexibility to align my family priorities with my values. In my spare time, I love to cheer for my Kansas City sports’ teams, read, and plan grand travel adventures.
Becoming the President of the WLA is an honor I take very seriously. Encouraging other women to pursue a career I love and feel fulfilled by is a mission that I am excited to lead. I feel that the WLA is at a pivotal point as an organization. Our initiatives are in place and are making an impact. We are ready to spread the word and expand our reach. It’s time to grow!