reading research on childhood trauma . I learned how adverse childhood experiences — abuse , poverty , a parent dealing with substance use disorder , etc .— all increase the likelihood of negative health outcomes for adults later on in life , such as homelessness , obesity , cardiovascular disease , and substance misuse . Moreover , I discovered that many parents of the children in our program had themselves been involved in the foster care system as children , perpetuating a generational cycle of trauma , disease , and mental health struggles .
This realization prompted a paradigm shift in my perspective on health , leading me to prioritize prevention and public health initiatives . Driven by a desire to address underlying causes and build capacity for prevention efforts , I enrolled in the University of Louisville ’ s Masters of Public Health ( MPH ) program . It was right around that time that the opportunity to lead the Floyd Memorial Foundation emerged . The foundation wanted to put more focus on improving community health by supporting prevention programming and fostering better partnerships with local nonprofits ; the role was in perfect alignment with my newfound purpose .
WHAT LEADERSHIP QUALITIES DO YOU VALUE MOST AND TRY TO EMULATE ?
I deeply value and try to emulate qualities encapsulated by servant leadership . This type of leadership approach is all about fostering an environment where every team member feels valued , supported , and empowered to reach their full potential . I aim to lead with authenticity , empathy , and a strong commitment to serving others .
HAVE YOU READ ANY BOOKS THAT HAVE INSPIRED YOUR WORK ? OR ARE THERE NOTABLE FIGURES THAT HAVE SAID OR DONE SOMETHING THAT HAS MOTIVATED YOU ?
Absolutely ! While I ’ ve read many inspiring books , one that really stands out is Simon Sinek ’ s book ‘ Start With Why ’. In his book , Sinek dives deep into the concept of leadership and the importance of understanding your fundamental “ why .” He argues that when you know your “ why ,” you have a deeper understanding of your motivations , your values , and your aspirations . Since reading it , finding my own “ why ” has given me a sense of purpose and direction , empowering me to pursue meaningful goals and contribute positively to the world around me . Additionally , communicating my “ why ” has helped me connect to others who resonate with and support my vision for the future .
For those curious , my “ why ” is : to foster healthy environments of safety , connection , and belonging so that everyone has the opportunity to thrive .
WHAT DO YOU LOVE ABOUT THE SOUTHERN INDIANA COMMUNITY ?
I love the small-town feel of Southern Indiana . It has some pretty charming downtowns , parks , and eateries . What truly makes it special , though , is the people . They ’ re the heart and soul of this place . Although they don ’ t always agree with each other , many of the people I ’ ve met genuinely care for and love this community .
WHAT DOES YOUR LIFE LOOK LIKE OUTSIDE OF WORK ?
Balancing work and play has always been a bit of a struggle for me — I tend to take life a tad too seriously and get lost in the grind . I ’ ve learned over time that life isn ’ t all about fulfilling your purpose ; it ’ s also about savoring the joy and fun that it brings . Outside of work , I try to spend as much quality time as I can with my family ; my husband , Josh , and our soonto-be 3-year-old son , Archie . I ’ m also intentional
16 EXTOL | APRIL 2024