Home and family 
Virginia Beach; husband Tom and a ragtag band of rescue cats.
Your job
Government relations consulting and business development.
Education 
AS from Tidewater Community College and BS in political science from Old Dominion University.
Career progression 
Financial services industry (banking, lending and investing), member of the Virginia House of Delegates, and now a consultant with the law firm of Williams Mullen.
Proudest business achievement
My husband and I were stationed in Hampton Roads in 1990. I acclimated quickly but I always felt that as a military family we weren’t really a member of the community. It seemed that military families didn’t really have a voice. We were described as transient, temporary and “non-voting.” I decided that needed to change. In 1994 I began getting involved with regional business and community organizations. I completed the Lead Hampton Roads program and in 1999 I ran and won election to the Virginia House of Delegates. During my nine years in the House I endeavored to be a voice for the military as well as the business community. I worked on initiatives to make life in Virginia better for our military. I viewed the military as having the same economic impact on our region as any other major employer and I believed that Virginia had a responsibility to create an environment that would foster a long-term commitment to Virginia by DoD and the military families living here.
Biggest success factor 
My supportive husband, family and friends.
Professional activities
Hampton Roads Chamber of Commerce Board member, 2006 and 2007 chair of Lead Hampton Roads, Virginia Beach Vision Board member.
Volunteer activities
Member of the Contemporary Art Center Board, member of the Navy League and former member of the ODU Alumni Board of Trustees.   Fund-raising assistance to the Naval Special Warfare Foundation.
How do you balance your time?
I make lists. I prioritize every “to do” and update my lists daily. I combine activities to serve multiple purposes. I don’t leave a room with my hands empty. I put away my work before taking out the next project. I set aside special time for family and personal interests. 
Biggest obstacle 
Moving to a new community with no existing relationships, having a spouse deployed in war time and trying to complete a college degree while working.   
How have you overcome challenges?
Through education and developing new and strengthening existing relationships. But mostly by believing I can.
Professional goal in five years
To grow my knowledge base, meet new people and help other people succeed.
Advice for women  
Become a subject matter expert in something of value to your organization. Learn to promote yourself.