2024 Inclusive Leaders Alliance profiles

The Inclusive Leaders Alliance is a structured pilot program intended to foster collaboration among HR and business leaders, guiding their journey to create inclusive workplaces that celebrate the state’s rich and vibrant diversity.

Check back to this page as more members of our inaugural Inclusive Leaders Alliance cohort are profiled!  

Profiled on November 14

Tell us why you love your company.
I get to work with a group of intelligent, driven, and all-around wonderful people every day. They inspire me to work harder and think bigger.

What is something interesting about yourself?
I met my best friend on the first day of preschool and we’re still besties. 35 years of friendship and counting…

Why did you choose to participate in the Chamber Foundation's Inclusive Leaders Alliance Pilot program?
I’m excited to participate in the Inclusive Leaders Alliance to continue my personal and professional journey learning about DEI. Leading with empathy and embracing the value of DEI is more important than ever, especially in the workplace. I also believe in the business case for DEI and want to help the Chamber continue to grow as an organization in this space.

Who or what inspires you?
My grandmothers, Marian and Joan. They were each dealt some tough cards but they never complained or waivered in their faith – they just kept going and did it with grace and strength. My Grandma Joan used to tell me “You can’t be a wimp in life.” I think of that often 😊

What is one piece of professional advice you're willing to share with us? 
My motto, especially after working in HR for many years now, is that the only constant in life is change. Don’t be deterred by the curveballs, rather lean in and find solutions. Adaptability is key.

What is your favorite thing about Minnesota?
The four seasons. I’m not a big fan of winter (except for Christmas!), but it’s still lovely to live in a place where we get to experience the full spectrum of the changing seasons – it’s a constant reminder that nothing is permanent in life.
 

Profiled on November 12

Tell us why you love your company. 
We have an amazing team and culture at Gardner! Everyone cares deeply about each other and the goals we’re working towards, and it makes for a really fun place to work. I love that we’re excited to experiment with new things and do things differently.

What is something interesting about yourself? 
I started playing the cello as an adult. I always thought that I’d like to play someday, and one day decided to make it a reality. I don’t get to play as much now with a preschooler at home, but I love to go to the MN Orchestra and geek out.

Why did you choose to participate in the Chamber Foundation's Inclusive Leaders Alliance Pilot program? 
This work is always important and there is always more to learn. Beyond personal growth and learning, I'm really excited to build connection and community with other local leaders doing this work, to share ideas and insights that we can bring back to our organizations. I'm excited that this group creates a unique space for leaders who are committed to doing this work and also aren't full-time DEI professionals.

Who or what inspires you? 
I'm inspired by folks who are passionate about their work, and who gather ideas from different places than their specialty/line of work. I'm a firm believer that diverse interests and a well-rounded life enhances your professional growth!

What is one piece of professional advice you're willing to share with us?  
I recently heard this advice from a friend that he often shares with young professionals...be careful/mindful about what you're good at, because you'll do a lot of it! That struck me because I find it to be very true, and just because you're good at something doesn't mean you love to do it or are passionate about it.

What is your favorite thing about Minnesota? 
I love being outdoors, and we're so lucky to have access to beautiful nature throughout the state. The Boundary Waters is a really special place for me and my family!  
 

Profiled on November 8

Tell us why you love your company.    
WSB is truly a forward-thinking and authentic organization of talented people working to design and build what’s next in our communities. The passion of our people is energizing and I enjoy collaborating with and supporting our business every day.

What is something interesting about yourself?    
I am an avid college football fan. Go Gophers!

Why did you choose to participate in the Chamber Foundation's Inclusive Leaders Alliance Pilot program?    
I chose to participate in the pilot program to both carve out time to focus on the work I want to complete in this area, and to meet others passionate about this work.

Who or what inspires you?    
People helping people inspires me. The differences we all bring to the table should be celebrated and utilized as we move forward as a team.

What is one piece of professional advice you're willing to share with us?    
I try to focus my professional mindset on the overall career journey, and learn at least one thing from every experience I encounter. Days can be hard, and a resiliency trait I utilize is to pause and look at the big picture of where you have come and where you want to go.

What is your favorite thing about Minnesota?    
My favorite thing about Minnesota is our seasons. This state is one-of-a-kind in the opportunity year round to enjoy so many different hobbies and experiences as the seasons change.