How did you first become involved with the Red Cross?
My first (Red Cross) memory was taking swimming lessons back when I was 6 years old. I have a distinct memory of Red Cross coming to the community centers to teach swimming. I still have my Red Cross swim certificate from 1973!
I’ve been contributing financially to the Red Cross for years. Prior to Hurricane Harvey, my giving was more reactionary. When Hurricane Harvey hit, I decided to increase my giving to the Red Cross because the situation was so dire, and I knew the Red Cross was first on the scene. Now I am a proud annual donor.
Could you share a memorable Red Cross experience that has had a significant impact on you?
I recently participated in Sound the Alarm (an annual event to promote home fire safety that includes installing smoke detectors) and visited the home of an elderly woman who did not speak English. Despite the language barrier, we were warmly welcomed, and witnessing her immense gratitude for our help and the Red Cross was deeply moving. Knowing that I played even a small role in making her home safer filled me with pride. Working alongside other dedicated volunteers who share my passion for helping others was inspiring and made the experience truly unforgettable.
What has been the best part about joining the Tiffany Circle?
The Tiffany Circle is a sisterhood that is focused on making other people’s lives better. The members have embraced me and the relationships that I’ve built since joining are priceless. It feels so nice to be connected to a group of women with similar philanthropic interests.
You’ve volunteered at Sound the Alarm, served as a member of the regional Gala Committee, joined the Legacy Society and recently donated blood. How do you assess which organizations to invest your time and resources?
I am drawn to organizations that alleviate suffering and create proactive, positive change in the world. When I commit to an organization, I am all in. I bring my time, talents and treasure and I feel the Red Cross exemplifies the highest standards of quality and consistency in helping people and serving communities.
You’ve had a successful career in private equity, operations and public accounting. What accomplishment are you most proud of?
Above any career accomplishments, I am most proud of taking care of my mom as she aged and navigated health challenges. This experience profoundly shaped my values and outlook on life, underscoring the importance of giving back and the transformative power of volunteerism. Integral in my line of work was working under pressure and navigating tight deadlines so I’m enjoying rewiring my skill set over to philanthropic endeavors.
What is the change you hope to see in the world and how do you feel the Red Cross will help us get there?
We are facing a lack of funding, resources and people to respond to the increasing frequency and intensity of climate-related disasters. Though the Red Cross is addressing this issue head on through its sustainability and climate crisis initiatives, every line of service is impacted by this global crisis. From Disaster Relief to Blood Services, the interconnectedness of this work needs to be amplified. My hope is the Red Cross will continue to lead the charge for change by spreading awareness and approaching its mission in the face of the climate change proactively vs. reactively. I believe if we can harness the collective power of partnerships between corporate, community and individuals, we can preserve our planet’s limited resources and build healthier and more resilient communities. I am looking forward to being part of this change.
Is there anything else you’d like your fellow Tiffany Circle members to know about you? Or anything you'd recommend to a new member?
Find your passion and pursue it! I'm still discovering which Red Cross line of service best fits my skills and interests, so I'm exploring different volunteer opportunities to find my niche and best utilize my skill set.