Executive Director
Silver State Health Insurance Exchange (5 years in Nevada)
Type of Business: State Agency | Hails from: Lake Oswego, Oregon | 3 years with company in Nevada | Based: Statewide
How did you first get into your profession?
I started as an advocate for seniors living in long term care settings and learned a lot about the importance of policy and their practical applications. As the State Long Term Care Ombudsman I realized that people should understand and influence policy for the betterment of our society. Over the past several years I’ve developed a keen interest in public health and the politics and policies that influence the way in which our country and state develop and apply such policies.
What do you want your legacy to be?
I’d like to leave the world and our state better than I found it. I want to be able to say that I played a role in getting Nevadans healthy.
When you were a kid, what did you want to be?
I used to tell my mom I was going to be the President and that when I retired I’d be an artist.
What business advice would you give someone just starting in your industry?
Remember who it is that is impacted by the policy you’re working on. Bring your focus back to those people over and over again.
What is a little known fact about yourself?
I do not watch TV. I read constantly.
What was the toughest lesson you’ve learned in your career?
You’ll never be able to make everyone happy.
If you could take back one sentence you’ve ever spoken, what would it be?
Probably something mean that I said to my mom as a teenager.
What is the best moment of your career?
It’s difficult to choose just one. Most recently when the former Director of the Exchange told me he believed in me and felt comfortable that he was leaving the Exchange in capable hands.
What is your motto?
Live and let live.
What is your favorite thing about living in Nevada?
Nevada is a little known gem of nature, culture and innovation.