Number of years as cooperative member: 26 years

Place of birth: Des Moines, Iowa

High school attended: Panorama High School

Additional education: Briar Cliff University, Bachelor’s Degree; University of Iowa, Master’s Degree in Social Work

Relevant professional experience: I assisted with the start of Hospice of the Midwest and have been an operational manager since then. I understand business management as well as the customer service side of business and the importance of having a balance between the two. I have completed the credits needed in order to receive my NTCA Director Core Curriculum Certificate this year.

Organizations, clubs, and associations: Panora Communications Cooperative and Cablevision; Panora Telecommunications; Guthrie Communications; PEO; Make a Wish Volunteer; National Association of Social Workers; National Association of Catholic Social Workers, Guthrie County State Bank Board member, Iowa National Association of Social Work Board Member. Former board member – County Representative Mental Health Board; Timber Creek; Guthrie County Hospital Foundation; Relay for Life; Panorama Days Committee; Panora Chamber and PRIDE.

Current occupation: I am currently the Regional Administrator of Hospice of the Midwest. I am responsible for the overall direction and implementation of hospice services, care team management, as well as the development of new offices. My position also is responsible for the establishment of standards of care to comply with state and federal guidelines and regulations, as well as operational planning, budgeting and establishment, implementation and evaluations of goals and objectives for growth and quality standards.

Family: I am a Panora native and have been blessed to grow up around my family. My husband is Shane, and my kids are Kennedy (23), Cooper (20), and Dane (15 heavenly years old).

Reason for running: I remain invested in our community and in Panora Fiber. I am proud to have served on the Panora Fiber board of directors for the last nine years and want to continue to serve to advocate for our members and employees. I want Panora Fiber to progressively look for opportunities to expand our services and service area. Panora Fiber takes excellent care of the communities in which we serve in many ways, and I am very proud to have the opportunity to be part of this cooperative — not only as a member, but also as a board member.