1. You hold both the SPHR and PHRca from HRCI and now volunteer as a subject matter expert. What first inspired you to pursue certification, and why did HRCI feel like the right partner for your HR journey?
I completed a certificate program through UC Davis and learned about HRCI certification through that program. I wanted to further my HR knowledge and acumen, and certification felt like the right path. I took a preparation course, tested for the SPHR, and passed. I immediately knew I wanted to take the California exam (PHRca) next.
HRCI felt like the right partner because of the brand recognition and accreditation. It was important to me that the letters behind my name held weight and meant something.
2. How has your experience volunteering with HRCI, writing, reviewing, and shaping exam content, expanded your understanding of the HR profession and strengthened your approach to the work?
The HR arena is vast, and it has grown into so much more than basic paperwork and employee support. Volunteering with HRCI has connected me to phenomenal HR practitioners and allowed me to develop deep friendships. Much of what we do can feel underappreciated, so having a network of like-minded peers provides an outlet.
This work continues to fuel my love for the profession. I always return revitalized after a session in Alexandria. I never doubt my career path, and this volunteer work shows me more possibilities for my future in HR.
3. You’ve spent much of your career in organizations that serve vulnerable people and families. How has working in such mission-driven environments influenced the way you lead HR and support teams?
Working with teams who support vulnerable populations reminds me why this work is important. When times get hard, I ask the team to take a breath and remember why our work matters. We never forget who we are supporting when we support the mission.
4. Your work spans everything from HRIS and payroll to training, compliance, and culture. How do you balance these responsibilities while staying grounded in people-first leadership?
I never lose sight of the fact that we are human and can only accomplish so much. HR requires constant reprioritizing. I check in with my teams, and myself, regularly.
Acknowledging the workload is important, but so is reminding everyone that grace and self-care matter. I emphasize one expectation with my staff: we make mistakes. It is okay. Communicate with me, and we will stop, assess, and correct it. When we hold ourselves accountable, we can accomplish anything.
5. You’ve supported organizations through mergers, acquisitions, major transitions, and rapid growth. What have those experiences taught you about leading people through change?
Change is scary. I may thrive in it, but not everyone does. Recognizing that shapes how I approach change with people. I rely on communication, regular check-ins, and addressing the elephant in the room.
It is impossible to make everyone happy. I do the best I can, and that is the expectation I set for my staff.
6. Wayfinder’s work is incredibly complex, serving individuals with disabilities, children in foster care, and families in crisis. What are some HR challenges unique to this environment, and how do you help teams stay resilient?
The biggest challenge is that everyone has a need, and they often feel it is urgent. For them, it is. My job is to help prioritize the fires and determine how to best use our resources. Acknowledging someone’s need and validating it goes a long way. Even if we cannot address it immediately, letting them know it is on the radar helps them feel heard.
I remind my staff that we can accomplish only so much in any day. As long as we keep moving forward, we will get to the finish line. Asking questions, being honest, and staying human helps keep everyone grounded. I never want my team to burn out, so keeping them resilient starts with treating them as people first.
7. You also teach at UC Davis. What motivates you to teach, and what do you hope the next generation of HR professionals takes with them into the field?
I am always looking for something new to keep me motivated and my knowledge up to date. Teaching pushed me out of my comfort zone, but it has become a rewarding way to give back.
The next generation is the bread and butter of HR. I want them to see the possibilities and opportunities, and the potential for growth. I hope they help strengthen HR’s seat at the table and love this profession as much as I do.
8. What advice would you give to HR professionals who want to expand their influence and grow into more strategic or senior roles, whether in nonprofits, public service, or beyond?
Always be in learning mode. Build your knowledge and take on new projects. That is how you learn. You can do big things. If you are waiting for someone to hand you that seat, think again. Growth is earned. You have to be visible and put yourself out there.
Find a mentor and a network. They make a huge difference. HR is always evolving, and there is never a point where we know everything. And yes, get certified. The value has been tremendous for me.
9. Looking back on your career so far, is there a moment or lesson that continues to shape how you lead and support others today?
Early in my career, my boss confronted me about forgetting to do something. I immediately took responsibility. That moment shaped me. She told me it earned her respect, and I knew then that this was how I wanted to lead.
We make mistakes. Own them, grow from them, and step up. I still make mistakes, and I still own them. Being vulnerable and authentic has strengthened my relationships at every level.
10. What keeps you inspired to keep learning, growing, and serving in this profession, especially in work that can be both emotionally demanding and deeply meaningful?
I love learning. HR evolves constantly, and that motivates me. I love a challenge, and HR offers plenty. Helping others solve problems or grow is incredibly rewarding.
I am inspired by the peers and friends I have made in this field. My network keeps me grounded and supported. Even on the most emotional or challenging days, I still love this profession.