- Hometown: Pine Grove, Pa.
- Role: Majority staff administrator for the Pennsylvania Senate
- Years of legislative service: 26
“There isn’t a day that goes by without a call, drop-by or email from senators or employees asking for advice or guidance, and I take great pride in that.”
Why did you choose to work at the Legislature?
It chose me! I was not politically involved; I didn’t even know who my state legislators were when I interviewed with the Senate in 1997. I had just graduated from business school and was looking for an administrative position and learned of an opening in the Office of Administrative Services. I interviewed, was offered the position and accepted all in the same day! It was meant to be.
What skill or talent are you most proud of?
I am a customer-service-oriented person and I enjoy helping people. There isn’t a day that goes by without a call, drop-by or email from senators or employees asking for advice or guidance, and I take great pride in that.
What’s the best advice you were ever given?
You can’t worry about things that you do not have control over. Early in my career, I used to carry everyone’s issues on my shoulders. I have learned to put my energy toward the things I can change, not the things I cannot.
Who or what inspires you?
I am inspired by the trust and competency that my superiors and peers have in me. My position as the staff administrator is an appointed position by the Senate president pro tempore. Since 2011, I am on my third president pro tem, and I am honored and humbled that I continue to be reappointed into my position.
What’s one thing you love about your state?
The multiple seasons that demonstrate its eclectic sceneries.
What are you currently reading/listening to/watching?
I am reading “A Man Called Ove,” by Fredrik Backman.
This interview has been edited for length and clarity. Use the email icon above to suggest a staffer for the “Staff Snapshots” series.