- Campus:
- IU Bloomington
What professional development activity will/did you complete with the help of the IUWIT grant?
Attending the statewide IT conference through the IUWIT grant was an enriching and valuable experience that gave me insights into the latest innovations and trends in information technology. The conference, held annually in Bloomington, brings together IT professionals from across the IU system, creating a collaborative platform for sharing knowledge and experiences.
One of the highlights of the conference was the keynote presentation delivered by Jessica Barker, a renowned international expert in cybersecurity. She discussed the impact of artificial intelligence on cybersecurity and its role in shaping the field.
What was the most valuable take-away from your experience at the Statewide IT conference that you can share with us?
The most valuable takeaway from the Statewide IT conference is recognizing the incredible work being done within Indiana University (IU) that often goes unnoticed outside of individual departments. Attending the conference highlighted how brilliant and innovative our IU colleagues are and how their contributions significantly enhance IT knowledge and inform best practices. This realization emphasizes the importance of looking within our own institution to find amazing and cutting-edge developments. Additionally, seeing IU's work in a global context through the keynote speaker's international perspective was enlightening.
Do you have any advice for finding your place/role in an organization?
Talk to everyone with an open mind and get to know as many people as you can. Even if you think their job has nothing to do with yours, you’ll often find that understanding what others are doing can be incredibly insightful and beneficial. It’s amazing to discover new possibilities and realize how interconnected everything is. This broader understanding helps inform your own work and gives you a better sense of belonging, as you see how you fit into the larger tapestry of the organization. By engaging with others, you uncover useful information and ideas that can significantly impact your role.
Do you have any advice as a woman in a leadership role?
As a woman in a leadership role, my best advice is to embrace your unique leadership style and lead from wherever you are. Regardless of your position within the hierarchy, whether you're the president of the university or a part-time employee, you have the opportunity to lead through your decisions and the influence you have on others. For me, relationships are crucial; I believe in building as many meaningful connections as possible because no one leads alone. Every project or role is part of a larger system, much like nesting dolls, where each part contributes to the whole. By recognizing your potential to influence and inspire, no matter your current stage, you can create ripples that impact many people, often in ways you might not even realize.
Is there a role model you look up to in your personal or professional life?
Professionally, I really look up to Renée Petrina. When she first started at the university, she held the same position that I did when I began. Over time, she has advanced and expanded her leadership role significantly. Seeing her path is inspiring because it shows that there's a wide range of possibilities for career progression, regardless of where we start. Neither of us began in technology—Renée came from journalism, and I was an English instructor. I learned tech out of necessity for teaching online, but now I can't imagine my work without it. Renée's journey illustrates that our leadership paths don't need to make sense on paper. By keeping an open mind and following where our interests lead, we can reach amazing places. Additionally, I believe in paying it forward by sharing opportunities with others. I am where I am because others opened doors for me, and I strive to do the same for those coming after me, fostering an inclusive environment where everyone can thrive.
What did you want to be as a child, and how has that journey led you to where you are today?
When I was a child, I wanted to be an architect. However, as I grew older, I realized how much math was involved in architecture. While I was competent at math, I wasn’t enthusiastic about pursuing it further. Instead, I discovered my love for reading and discussing books, which led me to follow a path in English education. Interestingly, although I didn't become an architect, I now see my work as a sort of "course architect." While I’m not designing buildings, I am designing educational experiences and courses, which feels like a full-circle moment. It wasn’t a straight path, but it’s fascinating how my early interests have influenced my current role.
What are some of your hobbies outside of work?
Outside of work, I have several hobbies that help me unwind. Whenever I feel frustrated or need a release, I play bass guitar, cranking up the amp and playing noisy rock and roll music. I also love baking, especially baked goods inspired by episodes of The Great British Baking Show like muffins, cookies, and cakes for my family. Additionally, I’m an avid reader, whether it’s listening to audiobooks in the car or curling up with a physical book. Reading remains a constant passion in my life.