How long have you been an FCCMA member, and why did you join?
I joined in 2022 to network and learn from the association’s diverse membership.
Are you an ICMA member? Why did you join, and how long have you been a member?
Yes, I joined ICMA in 2022 for the same reasons.
Please describe your areas of formal/advanced education.
I earned a Bachelor of Science in Recreation from the University of Florida and a Master’s in Recreation and Sport Management from the University of Georgia. My major in Recreation and minor in Business Administration aligned with my goal to become a Parks and Recreation Director.
Why did you select a career in public service?
I believe everyone deserves good government, and public service is a high calling. Growing up, I had a deep appreciation for my hometown’s exceptional recreational facilities and programs. I originally pursued a business degree, thinking it would help me work in sports or recreation, but switched to Parks and Recreation after discovering it as a major. My internship with the City of Palm Beach Gardens solidified my passion for public service, leading to a full-time position and a rewarding career.
Have you always been in the public sector, or have you had experience in the private sector?
I have about 15 years of municipal experience and 15 years in private higher education, including nearly eight years as an NCAA Division II Athletic Director.
Please tell us about your current position.
I am the Deputy Town Manager for Business Enterprise and Culture. I lead the Town Manager’s Office, the Town Clerk’s Office (which oversees over 100 public meetings annually), People and Culture (HR), and the Recreation Department, which includes the renowned Palm Beach Par 3 Golf Course and Superyacht Marina. I also support the Town’s Strategic Plan and Communication Team. I’m fortunate to work alongside talented and dedicated colleagues.
Please describe your typical day.
With a varied portfolio, every day is different. I focus on responding to challenges, maintaining exceptional service, and fostering communication and teamwork with residents, visitors, and staff.
What is your favorite part of the job?
Collaborating with our team and residents to bring significant projects and initiatives to life.
What is your least favorite part of the job?
While I thrive on novel challenges, dealing with mundane issues or being taken off track by urgent matters can be less enjoyable. I also don’t appreciate being yelled at on the phone or in meetings—but thankfully, that’s rare!
If you are involved in any volunteer or leadership activities, please share a bit about what you do.
I serve on the board of Mary’s Giving Fund and have volunteered for the Diocese of Palm Beach’s Office of Family Life for 23 years. My husband and I teach marriage preparation classes, which we love doing.
What is your most memorable experience on the job?
Two moments stand out – opening the Morton and Barbara Mandel Recreation Center and, 23 months later, the Superyacht Marina – both of which happened amid the challenges of COVID.
What are your hobbies/interests?
I’m an avid golfer and enjoy sports in general. I love professional development and leadership, so I read extensively in those areas and publish a weekly leadership blog for Town employees. Recently, I’ve taken up needlepoint, which helps me relax. I also enjoy spending time with my husband and sons.
If you could give one piece of advice to people interested in a career in public service, what would it be?
Public service is often misunderstood as bureaucratic or less challenging than private enterprise. In reality, it offers daily challenges and opportunities to apply business acumen and entrepreneurial spirit. If you want a rewarding career that combines impact and complexity, public service is worth considering.
What career would you pick if you were to pick another?
If I had the talent, I’d have loved to be a professional golfer! After retiring from local government, I may pursue consulting, which I’ve been doing on a small scale for 15 years.
Do you have a story about how being an FCCMA member has helped or impacted you?
FCCMA’s learning resources have been invaluable. Coming from a Parks and Recreation background, I’ve relied on FCCMA’s events and trainings to broaden my knowledge of other government sectors. The networking opportunities have also been fantastic, providing mentorship and a professional sounding board.
