What made you choose a career path in healthcare?
It was almost by accident. Early in my career working for Aetna, I worked with large employers reviewing benefit strategy, program design, funding strategies etc. for defined benefit pension plans and health, welfare, and wellness plans. As the space continued to get more and more complex, it was decided to have employees specialize in one area – retirement or healthcare. I was much more interested and passionate about healthcare, welfare, and wellness benefit programs.

What made you choose UNC & Kenan-Flagler Business School?
This was an easy choice. There were two previous generations of UNC grads across my family. Choosing UNC was in my blood. I also knew that I wanted to pursue a career in business working for and with large employers. UNC and Kenan-Flagler Business School provided a broad and strong foundation giving me the most opportunities and choices to pursue a career in business without knowing exactly what that career would look like and how it would change over 35 years of work.

What is the most important skill you have developed in your career?
The most important skill that has helped me during my career is the ability to network, connect people, and organize teams to solve complex problems for our business and our clients. When this works well, I have been able to step away and allow others to lead and grow and for me to move to other issues, initiatives, new business opportunities etc. It is a real win/win/win. Teammates win and grow, clients and the business succeed, and I have been able to explore and learn and take on new responsibilities.

What is something about you that not many people know?
I am an internet ordained minister and will be officiating my 4th wedding ceremony on August 21, 2021. These events have been some of the most rewarding and memorable experiences of my life. Another example of something that I didn’t seek out but embraced and has been exceptionally fulfilling.