2020-06-18 - Women Inspiring Nevada 2020

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2020

WOMEN INSPIRING NEVADA Photographs by Wade Vandervort

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Vegas Inc’s 2020 Women Inspiring Nevada honorees represent the most influential and inspirational females in business and philanthropy in Southern Nevada. These women are pioneers in their industries and major drivers in our community. They are making significant strides today to inspire a better tomorrow.

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Congratulations, Las Vegas Weekly’s

WOMEN INSPIRING NEVADA HONOREES City National Bank is proud to serve the Las Vegas community and the women leaders who impact and inspire us every day.

Visit CNB.com

City National Bank Member FDIC. City National Bank is a subsidiary of Royal Bank of Canada. ©2020 City National Bank. All Rights Reserved.

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WOMEN INSPIRING NEVADA 2020 ■ Before we celebrate the wonderful achievements of so many

accomplished women business and community leaders in Southern Nevada, I would like to take a moment on behalf of City National Bank to say how saddened we are with the recent events that have swept our communities and country, and the suffering that continues with the COVID-19 pandemic. Our hearts go out to the victims of both tragedies and we pray for unity and healing for everyone.

As we turn our focus to Women Inspiring Nevada, I would like to say how proud I am to work for a company that truly recognizes women in the workplace and their amazing contributions and accomplishments. City National has a long track record of hiring women in leadership roles, as it did last year when Kelly Coffey became the bank’s CEO. Kelly is among a select group of female CEOs in the banking industry.

Celebrating over 66 years in business, City National has a long-standing commitment to supporting its clients, colleagues and communities. City National is embedded in the fabric of Nevada and dedicated to supporting women and minorities in the workplace.

City National is also proud to be the official bank for the Vegas Golden Knights, Touro University and so much more. Leadership at the bank has made community engagement a priority and works to help communities throughout Nevada.

Congratulations to all of the 2020 Women Inspiring Nevada honorees! The influence you have had on our community and state is remarkable. You inspire all of us to become the best we can be. Thank you for the work you do every day on behalf of Nevada.

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SPECIAL NOTE ■ In what has been become a somewhat scary and uncertain time for so many of us, there are beacons of hope seen every day in the courageous and dedicated leaders selflessly serving our community. These leaders each look different. Some are on the front line.

Some are behind the scenes. But all are doing their part to help Vegas survive this pandemic and come back as an example of the strength and determination we’ve all come to expect from Southern Nevadans.

I couldn’t be more excited to share some of these outstanding leaders as part of Vegas Inc’s 2020 Women Inspiring Nevada special issue. These 12 honorees were nominated well before the rise of COVID-19; however, given their collective influence and unwavering devotion to our community, it isn’t surprising that you have likely heard several of their names recently.

These women have stepped up during one of the toughest times we’ve ever experienced.

They are working to ensure everyone in need receives proper health care, that those dedicating themselves to further their education are given the opportunity, that our business community will come out of this pandemic stronger and better than ever and that no one in our schools and throughout the Valley goes hungry—areas of need in Southern Nevada now more than ever.

The impact they have made supersedes the current events. They have been committed to personal and professional growth and philanthropic giving for years. Their stories of success are truly inspiring. Their commitment to our community is overwhelming. And it’s only just beginning.

I would like to thank our panel of judges, which carefully reviewed each and every submission—not an easy task! As past winners, these judges have a keen eye for recognizing great female leaders. And I would also like to express our gratitude to our presenting sponsor, City National Bank, for its support of this special publication. We are proud to share the stories of our 2020 Women Inspiring Nevada honorees, and we hope that, especially now, they provide a glimmer of hope for what’s to come.

Sincerely, Paul Stowell Nevada Regional Executive City National Bank

City National Bank Member FDIC. City National Bank is a subsidiary of Royal Bank of Canada.

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Jennifer Inaba Special Publications Manager jennifer.inaba@gmgvegas.com

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MARY BETH SEWALD

President and CEO, Vegas Chamber Hometown: St. Clair, Missouri Years in Las Vegas: 30 (in Nevada) A zealous leader, certifiable adrenaline junkie and adventurist, Mary Beth Sewald loves to take a difficult challenge as an opportunity to rise up and lead in new ways to grow and advance our business community.

Why this career?

I am a journalist and broadcaster by training, so I would say the Vegas Chamber chose me! I was CEO of the Nevada Broadcasters Association and joined the Chamber as a select strategic partner. When my predecessor retired, I was asked by chamber board members to apply, and I did. I am blessed to have the opportunity to serve businesses in the state of Nevada in ways I never could have imagined—especially since COVID-19. Now, more than ever, businesses need resources that only a chamber of commerce can deliver. I’ve had many people tell me they never could have survived this pandemic if not for the resources they were able to receive through the Vegas Chamber.

Biggest inspiration?

My mom. She was tireless in her devotion and relentless in her encouragement. To this day, she inspires me to be a better person and to strive for excellence.

Advice to young women entering the workforce? Believe in yourself. Surround yourself with people who encourage you, whom you trust to give you honest feedback, and those you aspire to emulate.

Fun outside of work? I love to ride motorcycles, water ski and snow ski, and I am a general aviation pilot. I love to do anything outdoors. Nature is what feeds my soul.

Favorite thing about living in Southern Nevada? The people.

The business climate is “can-do.” It has been said about the team at the Vegas Chamber that “they help others even when it doesn’t benefit them.” And that’s true about the people of Southern Nevada in general, from small businesses all the way up to the largest companies in the state. Home means Nevada.

One person can make all the difference.

At KPMG, we never underestimate the power of an individual with passion. That’s why we want to recognize all the nominees for the Women Inspiring Nevada Award for their outstanding contributions to business, industry, and community. You’ve exceeded expectations, and made a positive impact in the lives of so many. kpmg.com

© 2020 KPMG LLP, a Delaware limited liability partnership and the U.S. member firm of the KPMG network of independent member firms affiliated with KPMG International Cooperative (“KPMG International”), a Swiss entity. NDP068399

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SHAWN WILLIS Founder & CEO, 5AM Global

Hometown: Farmington Hills, Michigan Years in Las Vegas: 16

Shawn Willis specializes in marketing with an emphasis in business growth and development. Beyond her client roster, Willis is active in her community and is a member of the UNLV 1957 Society Outreach Committee, the global initiative for Rebuilding Travel and Women of Global Change. She uses her experience to help organizations within the Valley maximize their potential.

Why this career? My career choices were to study law or marketing. When interviewing lawyers of all different practices, I asked two questions: “Are you happy?” and “Do you love what you do?”

Not one said yes to both questions. I concluded that living as a lawyer was not for me, but even a lawyer needs marketing.

Proudest professional achievements? Starting my first business at age 15 and having a contract with a national corporation by age 17, building an international team and managing international accounts by age 25 and raising and contributing over $10 million to Las Vegas local and global nonprofit organizations.

Why is community important?

It is my human responsibility.

The “why” is simply because we live in the community. We must help build, maintain and strengthen the community.

Biggest inspiration? My father, mother, family, friends and business associates. I am inspired by all whom I am touched by, depending on the timing, topic, situation, etc. I continue to learn, grow, apply and share.

Best advice received? “Let the cake bake!” This means to not worry or stress. Do not panic or make any hasty (possibly bad) decisions when you know that you have everything right.

Advice to young women entering the workforce? Communicate honestly and focus on your strengths. We are often taught to focus on what we need to improve; this is deficient living.

Favorite thing about living in Southern Nevada? I moved to Southern Nevada for the sunshine, and everything else is a plus. One more thing that I must acknowledge is that Southern Nevada is a supportive and philanthropic-focused region that does work together.

BE PART OF SOMETHING BEAUTIFUL Being an active member of our Vegas community, Women Inspiring Nevada nominee Danielle Bisterfeldt is creating beautiful moments every day. From being involved with the National Multiple Sclerosis Society, to Goodie Two Shoes and Shannon West Homeless Youth Center she is consistently making a difference in our community.

Not to mention the continuous leadership she provides as the Vice President of Marketing for SummerlinÂŽ. Danielle is an inspiration to be the something beautiful. Congratulations from all of your family at The Howard Hughes Corporation.

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VANESSA PORTILLO

Executive Director, Garden Farms Foundation Hometown: Las Vegas Years in Las Vegas: 29

Vanessa Portillo is a dedicated proponent for health and wellness in Southern Nevada and a passionate enthusiast for fresh food access and local food security.

She implements educational garden programs in schools, community centers and nonprofits across the Valley.

Why this career? As a certified herbalist, I fell in love with the cultivation and care for plants. I also love working with kids and sharing their curiosity and wonder! Learning the important life skill of growing your own food, and understanding where food comes from, sets a powerful foundation for self-sustainability and healthy habits.

How has COVID-19 impacted your work? Since mid-March, when COVID-19 shut down schools, we have been able to help the community with the harvest produced from the gardens.

We have donated about 200 pounds of food to a senior distribution center organized by City of Henderson, Emergency Aid of Boulder City and the Good Life Chef Project, where

Chef Andrew Prodigalidad is organizing a meal prep to distribute to low-income families and the Heritage Park Senior Center.

Why is community important? None of the work I do, you do, any of us do, would be possible without community. As we say in gardening, “Many hands make light work.” The same applies as we all work together to create the environment we want to live in.

Best advice received?

“Take pride in your work.” It helped me to recognize that we can put purpose into everything. Even if it is not immediately clear, everything we do, and the way we do it, makes a difference.

Advice to young women entering the workforce?

Find what really inspires you, and let that become your work. Remember that the work that you do represents you, so be proud of it!

Goals for the next 5-10 years? Eliminate as many Las Vegas food deserts as possible, with easy accessibility to a growing garden and/or a farmers market for our community members.

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DANIELLE BISTERFELDT

Vice President of Marketing, Summerlin, The Howard Hughes Corporation Hometown: Diamond Bar, California Years in Las Vegas: 18 A retail and development executive serving as a selfproclaimed brand ambassador and curator of magical moments, Danielle Bisterfeldt is dedicated to creating memorable experiences for guests, visitors and residents of Summerlin through well-branded advertising, marketing and event logistics.

Why this career? I thrive at maintaining high standards and creating vibrant experiences for consumers to enjoy. The entire experience is my focus, and every touch point for our guest and clients is of the utmost importance.

Proudest professional achievements? Opening the expansion of Fashion Show in 2002 and the Shoppes at the Palazzo in 2008. Also, creating the opening ceremony of the Las Vegas Aviators’ inaugural season at Las Vegas Ballpark, managing the design and construct of the Team Store and helping to curate a food and beverage program unlike any other in Minor League Baseball.

How can our community progress in uncertain times? I learned very quickly that being engaged creates a better sense

of understanding in changing times and creates a stronger network for people to tackle issues. Las Vegas has faced adversity since I moved here in 2001, and the one thing I know is that we come together as a community and help each other overcome every time. We live in the most innovative and compassionate city, and we will come out of this [pandemic] even stronger.

Organizations you support?

National Multiple Sclerosis Society and Keep Memory Alive, because my mother and four girlfriends all suffer from MS. Alzheimer’s Association in memory of my father who passed away from this disease. Goodie Two Shoes and Shannon West Homeless Youth Center, because they are local charities that provide direct impact to children in our community.

Advice to young women entering the workforce? This is your journey, and you may not experience things that have been shared by others who came before you.

Fun outside of work? My husband and I enjoy golf, hockey games, music concerts and traveling.

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LINDA SMITH

Fundraising Consultant/Author/Speaker Hometown: Henderson Years in Las Vegas: 40

Linda Smith is a tireless advocate for those with developmental disabilities, a faithful supporter of caregivers and a monumental fundraiser who shares the journey, advice and expertise in all areas of fund development as a consultant, author and speaker.

Why this career? I fell into my career after the birth of my eldest son, Christopher, and his diagnosis of Down syndrome in Canada.

I tried bringing him back to the U.S. and was faced with discrimination, low expectations, neglect and general apathy toward those with developmental disabilities. I made it my mission to make a difference for my son and those like him.

Proudest professional achievements?

The completion of seven capital campaigns totaling $350 million; organizing 25 years of annual charity concerts featuring internationally recognized celebrities like Celine Dion; creating the Christopher Smith Endowment, a $5 million social recreation and arts disability endowment; and creating several signature events like the Magical Forest and the Great Santa Run with Opportunity Village.

Biggest inspiration? My son Christopher, who was born with challenges that would bring most of us to our knees. Without him and the experiences we faced together, I would not have become an author, nor become as involved in the nonprofit world as I am today.

How can our community progress in uncertain times? For now, I am heeding the words of Winston Churchill about the strength of the human spirit to endure: “Danger gathers upon our path. We cannot afford … we have no right … to look back.

We must look forward.” Yes, things are likely to get worse, but we can power through with courage and emerge as better humans.

I refuse to let negative thoughts get to me. I am looking forward.

Goals for the next 5-10 years? I hope to finish my second book, Confessions of a Sin City Fundraiser, and continue to help raise funds for various disability organizations and other nonprofits. I want to grow the Christopher Smith Foundation to its full potential and support more caregivers throughout the country.

Pamela,

CARDIOLOGY PATIENT

This is where the next chapter began. After battling atrial fibrillation and a greater risk of stroke and heart failure, Pamela found advanced treatment at UMC: the world’s smallest pacemaker. She was the first to receive this surgery in Nevada—and it took just 20 minutes. Though this life-saving device is the size of a vitamin, for Pamela, it has made an enormous difference. New breakthroughs. New beginnings. Only at UMC.

umcsn.com

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NIKKOLE LIESSE

Executive Director, Lee Business School Office of Online and Executive Education at UNLV Hometown: Albuquerque, New Mexico Years in Las Vegas: 20 Nikkole Liesse is a business education strategist who works to ensure that all students have access to completing their college degree. She also supports local professionals by identifying opportunities to provide lifelong learning for today’s workforce.

Why this career? I am passionate about people. When the recession hit in 2008, I saw people losing their homes, colleagues losing their jobs and companies going bankrupt. This was a pivotal moment in my career. I decided I wanted to use my marketing and business skills to help people become the best versions of themselves and be better prepared to thrive in any business or economic environment.

Biggest inspiration? I’m inspired by my students. In order to achieve their educational goals, they are making tremendous daily sacrifices in all other areas of their lives.

Best advice received? A mentor of mine taught me that, when I’m faced with big decisions or issues, to ask myself if I am looking for clarity or certainty. Clarity is key. Seeking clarity is important in order to make sound, logical, thorough decisions. Certainty, however, can be the antithesis to sound decisions. Looking for certainty will often paralyze a leader and prevent forward progress. I found myself drawing on this advice daily while navigating the first

few weeks of the COVID-19 global pandemic. I had to make many decisions that impacted current and future students. With information flooding in and uncertainly across the board, I had to step back and try and see the whole picture while acknowledging that tomorrow that image could change, yet I had to act.

Advice to young women entering the workforce? Be authentic. It wasn’t until I embraced who I was as a professional, a woman and a modern servant leader that I was able to truly make an impact in the lives of those around me.

Fun outside of work? Some of the best experiences in my life have come from visiting new places and eating the local cuisine.

It’s my goal to visit a new country and new state every year.

Inc congrats ad_6.4.2020.pdf 1 6/4/2020 11:59:30 AM

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Congratulations Mayor Debra March on being recognized as one of VEGAS INC’S

2020 Women Inspiring Nevada

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NINA RIDGEWAY

Director of Career Center Services, Goodwill of Southern Nevada A 20-year U.S. Air Force veteran with a passion for helping others who have served our country with their transition to civilian life, Nina Ridgeway now guides servicemen and women through the necessary stages of their career development to obtain gainful employment.

Why this career? Serving the underrepresented, being part of the solution to fight poverty and contribute to family resiliency is why I stay in the field of workforce development.

Proudest professional achievements?

Active-duty service in USAF and founding the Southern Nevada Community Engagement Board, a collaboration of 50 organizations working together to serve those who have served and their families.

Major career accomplishment? Assisting over 2,200 veterans and their families with job placement and providing aid to over 7,800 others with career development services through Goodwill’s Veteran Integration Program.

What have you learned during the COVID-19 pandemic? Our community comes together in times of trouble and hardship. I have seen its citizens risk their safety and security to ensure everyone is taken care of. Businesses and organizations came together to feed the hungry, the children, the homeless. COVID-19 has shown itself to be one of the most challenging times for our citizens, which includes my team.

I learned that my instincts needed to face challenges that are still with me today. The team was able to transition all of our Career Center Services to online and virtual almost overnight.

Biggest inspiration? My kids—great, independent-thinking children, who, even though it is frustrating at times as a parent, have great values and are genuinely good kids!

Best advice received? “You know it’s time to move on when it, whatever it is, is no longer enjoyable.” I have never worked for an employer out of necessity, only out of passion for what I’m doing.

Advice to young women entering the workforce? Be open to learning new things. Always go beyond your job description. Do not allow someone else’s opinion to determine how you deal with a situation or person.

Hometown: Yuba City, California Years in Las Vegas: 18

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JODI TYSON, MPH

Vice President of Strategic Initiatives, Three Square Food Bank Hometown: Boulder City Years in Las Vegas: 42 A committed philanthropist from an early age, Jodi Tyson knew she was destined to follow a path of public leadership to help improve health and safety for women, children and the elderly. She now contributes her energy toward ensuring a healthier, wealthier and more equitable future for all members of our community.

Why this career? As a college student, I most enjoyed internships and interactions with agencies that worked behind the scenes. They enacted policies and contributed to research that influenced informing best practices, as opposed to agencies that focused on direct services. Public health provided the exact mix of macroplanning, policy and services that I craved to do in my career.

Proudest career achievements?

To have passed important pieces of legislation that increase access to better nutrition among children, adults and seniors … to be a founder of programs and organizations that have made a lasting and sustainable impact in the community ... to have shared my professional expertise and love for

this field as a contract professor at UNLV, as well as mentoring many young professionals.

Best advice received?

“Sometimes it’s better to ask for forgiveness rather than for permission.” Just make sure that it is in alignment with the organization’s mission and that it’s a cause you’re ready to sacrifice for until others can catch up to your reasoning and action.

Advice to young women entering the workforce? If you want to build a relationship with someone, ask them to teach you something.

Favorite thing about living in Southern Nevada? There just isn’t anywhere that competes with the economic opportunity, outdoor lifestyle, community design, intentional planning, access to elected leaders, innovation and sense of community that is Southern Nevada.

Goals for next 5-10 years? In 2015, I set a goal to run for office in the decade of 2020. I am on pace with the learning and listening benchmarks I have set for myself to prepare for such an audacious endeavor.

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CHELLE ADAMS Chief Financial Officer, The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas A financial power player with an extremely versatile background and broad industry experience who is inspired by the hard work and dedication shown by her parents, Chelle Adams now champions others in their career path to achieve their goals and become leaders in hospitality.

Why this career? My father was a major influence. After he retired from the Air Force, he went to college to obtain his accounting degree. He would find ways to incorporate me into his late-night study sessions, including “helping” with his homework by punching in numbers on his big calculator. These late-night sessions were the start of my dabbling into accounting and finance.

Proudest career achievement? The moments when members from my team grow into their fullest potential. I thoroughly enjoy identifying opportunities, matching skill sets, encouraging them to take risks and providing support as they pave their way forward.

How can our community progress in uncertain times? Without a doubt, the current climate that our city and industry are facing due to COVID-19 is one that we have never encountered before and has had significant strain on our city. Every single individual has been affected in some way, and we are anxious to see a return to normalcy.

Throughout this crisis, my sole focus has been on our employees and our customers. We are not the Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas without them, and we are on our road to recovery.

Best advice received? One of my favorite terms is “career equity,” which means you are in charge of your own destiny and should not rely on anyone else. Always have a plan and be deliberate in your actions, identifying opportunities, being proactive, building relationships and taking risks.

Advice to young women entering the workforce? As women, we have a tendency to keep our heads down and work hard in hopes someone will notice us. Progression and success in the corporate world is not just about working the most hours; it’s about adding value.

Hometown: Midwest City, Oklahoma Years in Las Vegas: 7

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CAMI CHRISTENSEN President & General Manager, Westgate Las Vegas Resort & Casino

A travel aficionado and hospitality veteran with a devotion to serving her local community, Cami Christensen now forges a path less traveled for women along the tourism corridor, taking pride in every positive guest experience along the way.

Why this career? I grew up in a small, very close-knit Danish community in Iowa. Growing up in that kind of environment gave me a deep understanding of the importance of caring about family and community. This is really what hospitality is. I’ve always loved creating memorable experiences, and I think that is what drew me to this industry.

Why is community important? There is nothing more meaningful than taking care of those in need in our community.

Here in Las Vegas in recent years, we’ve faced a number of challenges, and we’ve shown just how strong the sense of community is here.

Biggest inspiration? The one constant who stands out and has always been there for me is my mom, Marilee. I would not be where I am without her support and her unwavering example of the values of strength, resiliency and honesty, all balanced with a sense of humor.

Best advice received? “Always trust your instincts.” As I progressed in my career, I have become more confident with trusting my inner voice.

Advice to young women entering the workforce? Support each other, find something you are crazy passionate about and be a champion for that cause. Work hard, and don’t let anyone tell you that you can’t do something.

Goals for the next 5-10 years? COVID-19 has made so many issues facing Southern Nevada important. I think the overall recovery of our city is going to be so critical, making sure that no one is left behind.

Although the challenges ahead are difficult, I also see it as an opportunity to reimagine our Las Vegas experience.

Hometown: Elk Horn-Kimballton, Iowa Years in Las Vegas: 19

Touro University Nevada Congratulates

Dr. Rebecca Edgeworth Assistant Professor Touro University Nevada School of Physician Assistant Studies

Garden Farms Foundation is a local non-profit organization, fostering garden

You inspire students and patients every day with your passion for healthcare and helping those less fortunate.

programs for low-income schools and communities to provide the people of today access to the food security of tomorrow.

Touro University Nevada 874 American Pacific Drive, Henderson, NV 89014 tun.touro.edu Touro University Nevada is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC) as a branch campus of Touro University California and licensed in Nevada by the Commission on Post-Secondary Education. Touro University Nevada does not discriminate on the basis of race, ethnicity, age, sex, gender, color, creed, national origin, religion, sexual orientation or disability.

LEARN HOW TO BECOME A GARDEN SPONSOR AT

WWW.GARDENFARMS.NET

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DR. REBECCA EDGEWORTH, M.D.

Medical Director of Physician Assistant Studies & Assistant Professor, Touro University Nevada Hometown: Las Vegas Years in Las Vegas: 20 Rebecca Edgeworth is a doctor with a clinical mind and a community heart, who is steadfast in her mission to help those with limited access to health care. She now engages students not only in appropriate medical care, but also in caring for those most in need in our community.

Why this career? I chose medicine because I felt it brought together many of my skills and interests. I’ve always loved talking to people and helping them overcome obstacles and accomplish their goals.

Additionally, I enjoy learning about how health and disease affect people and how I can help to intervene and improve lives.

How has COVID-19 impacted your work? COVID-19 has significantly affected my two main jobs—teaching and caring for patients. As a professor, I’ve had to convert to online teaching to keep students engaged and on time for graduation. As a primary care provider, I have mainly switched to telemedicine. Touro faculty and students have gone into the community to help screen homeless and underserved residents of Las Vegas. I have volunteered to go with student volunteers to help screen our most vulnerable patient populations. These are populations who don’t have access to common hygiene and are unable to isolate, and we are very committed to caring for this population.

Best advice received? I’ve always been very moved by the quote attributed to Mahatma Gandhi, “Be the change that you wish to see in the world.” Anyone can look around and see things that need to be improved or reformed, but it takes real and intentional action to bring changes to reality.

Advice to young women entering the workforce? Follow your passion. So often we become focused on paying student loans and caring for family and we lose sight of why we went into medicine in the first place.

Favorite thing about living in Southern Nevada? The cultural diversity and how so many different people have come together in our community to make it a vibrant and constantly evolving community.

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PA P E R L E S S !

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Amy Ogden - Logic

Bobbi Miracle - Commercial Executives Real Estate Services

Bridget Richards - Perry Guest

Cathy Jones - Sun Commercial Real Estate Inc

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Donna Alderson - Cushman & Wakefield

Patti Dillon - Colliers International

Soozi Jones WalkerCommercial Executives Real Estate Services

Securely access important documents from anywhere!

The women of SIOR would like to congratulate all of this year’s Women Inspiring Nevada honorees!

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Hometown: Detroit, Michigan Years in Las Vegas: 52 (in Nevada)

DEBRA MARCH Mayor, City of Henderson

A dynamic leader and devoted public servant helping Henderson and Nevada become better places to live and conduct business, Mayor Debra March serves with a keen mind for smart growth, sustainable economic development and a transparent approach to community engagement.

What has been your career path? After graduating from UNLV, I served as a Nevada park ranger in locations throughout the state, where I promoted the value of parks and open spaces for a healthy quality of life. I then moved to Southern Nevada as deputy administrator with the Nevada Real Estate Division, creating and implementing policies for responsible homeownership, and from 1996 to 2009 led efforts for the development of livable communities as director of UNLV’s Lied Institute for Real

Estate Studies. I was appointed to the Henderson City Council in 2009, elected in 2011 and 2015 and then as mayor in 2017.

Proudest professional achievements? Being the first woman park ranger in Nevada, making a difference in my role at UNLV and, when elected mayor, launching a Women’s Business Network as well as bringing new businesses into the city to help with diversification.

Most important issue facing Southern Nevada? The health, safety and welfare of our residents, especially now when we’re faced with the unprecedented challenges surrounding COVID-19. I’m working with our federal and state-elected officials as well as the city leadership team to provide the highest level of protection possible for our community.

Biggest inspiration? My parents, my father in particular, and my sister-in-law, who was a high-ranking executive at a large corporation—she demonstrated how women can be successful in any and all careers.

Best advice received? Be true to yourself, work hard, stay focused and be the change you want to see in the world.

Advice to young women entering the workforce? To whom much is given, much is expected.

Fun outside of work? Hiking, biking, horseback riding and spending time with my granddaughter and my fur babies.