Degree: BA History, December 1993.
Notes: Outstanding young alumnus, 2002
What are you up to now?
I spend most of my time running here, there and everywhere! Mostly, driving my 15-year-old daughter to swim practice and meets. She swims for the Cincinnati Marlins and they practice at the fabulous Recreation Center on NKU’s campus, so I am there four nights a week!
Professionally, I’ve been in the health care benefits industry for over 20 years and a benefits consultant for more than five years. I currently work for Mercer – one of the world’s largest consulting firms – in their Cincinnati office. I work with organizations to develop benefits programs that attract and retain talent. I also help them design innovative plans and wellness programs to manage their health care costs, while helping their employees live healthier, more fulfilling lives.
How did NKU help you on your journey?
I truly believe that my success both personally and professionally is directly related to my days at NKU. I chose History as my major because of the professors. The smaller class sizes allowed me to get to know them and receive the extra support and attention I needed to succeed. They gave me the thing I needed most as a student – their time. They taught me to write, communicate and work effectively within a group. I owe a debt of gratitude to Dr. Vitz, Dr. Washington, Dr. Ryan and Dr. Jeffries for all of their help and support.
NKU provides opportunities to get involved on campus and I took advantage of those opportunities. I participated in Greek Life and it changed my perspective on everything. I met my mentor through that experience and she continues to be a key influence in my life. I also met a fabulous group of women that are still as important to me today as they were 25 years ago! When I received my first job offer out of college, one of the reasons I was hired was because of my involvement on campus and my experience working with large groups to achieve a common goal.
What is some advice you would give to prospective/current students?
This is what I shared with my niece when she started at NKU:
