Chief executive officer
Family Connection of South Carolina
Please share advice you would give as a mentor to women new to the health field.
Lead with curiosity and compassion. Health care will challenge you intellectually and emotionally, but your empathy and integrity will always be your strongest tools. Listen deeply to patients, families and your colleagues. Be guided by evidence but never lose sight of the person behind the data. Don’t wait for permission to lead; leadership starts with how you show up every day.
How would you describe your journey to becoming the health leader you are today?
My career path changed direction when my son faced medical challenges. Experiencing the health system as a parent gave me a new understanding of how overwhelming it can be to navigate care. I saw the difference that clear communication and genuine compassion make for families under stress.
What routines and habits help you prepare for, or recover from, a day’s challenges?
I make time to paint. It gives me space to step away from the constant urgency of life and reconnect with creativity and reflection. I also try to end each day with quiet time, whether that’s taking a walk or cooking dinner with my family or binge-watching a good rom-com series.