What is your proudest accomplishment as a leader? 

My proudest accomplishment as a leader is as a mother. I have five kids who have all found their passions in life and are also good, grounded people. At work, my proudest accomplishment has been using my platform to help others, whether brining local, non-profits on my noon show at Fox 13 to help promote their events and their mission, to giving authors a live, broadcast shelf from which to share news of their latest releases. I’m also proud of being the voice people turn to for information in times of crisis, such as during hurricane season last year.

What is the one piece of advice you’d give to other aspiring women leaders?

Your peace is your power, so don’t waste energy on what you can not control. Focus on your reactions, your work, your intentions and you will achieve without anxiety or as much stress. Also, do what you love and it won’t always feel like work.

What inspires you most about your work or your industry?

As a journalist, I have the power to help both individuals and my community in a variety of ways. I helped a young man paralyzed by a car accident get a donated, modified van so he could attend college and law school. I’ve helped women with no insurance get a mammogram through foundation funding. I’ve also had a front seat to history, which is inspiring. I covered the last shuttle launch at the Cape. I worked the RNC and Superbowl in Tampa. I met my husband in Cuba covering the visit of Pope John Paul the second.

Who is a woman from history (or your own life) who has inspired you, and why?

Two female journalists inspired me. Martie Salt anchored the main shows at ABC Action News when I started there. She showed me the importance of being yourself on the anchor desk and out in the field when reporting. We’re not actors. Fox 13’s Kelly Ring showed me that you can be strong and set boundaries while also being kind. To everyone. People will remember how you made them feel.

In one word, how would you describe the legacy you want to leave as a leader?

Advocate

Share a favorite quote that motivates you.

I’ve learned that people will forget what you said. People will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel. – Maya Angelou