2022 AMP Faces of Arkansas
Tell us about the work that makes you most proud.
It is my honor to serve as CFO at Arkansas Children’s and as a member of this team for more than 37 years. While finance is typically a role that sits behind the scenes, my team is attached to our strategic work and bold vision. We take great responsibility in ensuring our investments have the greatest impact on the patients and families we serve. From being good stewards of generous donations through Arkansas Children’s Foundation to financing a new hospital, I am most proud of the way our investments throughout Arkansas advance care close to home and improve child health.
Who or what has been a source of inspiration for you?
I’m inspired by our Arkansas Children’s team. Year after year, our team shows an even greater commitment and dedication to our patients and families, while always striving for safety, teamwork, compassion and excellence to fulfill our mission.
Do you have a favorite quote?
Yes, my favorite quote, which is framed in my office, is, “Progress moves at the speed of trust.” I believe it is true and have experienced this throughout my career. I have also always liked a hockey quote from Wayne Gretzky (no I don’t play hockey) which is, “I skate to where the puck is going to be.” It is about looking forward and anticipating what is ahead.
During which part of the day are you most productive?
I am definitely not an early morning person, but any time after my coffee, I am good!
What is an alternative path you might have taken if things had played out differently?
I probably would have been a physician, perhaps a surgeon. However, I was much better at accounting than chemistry in high school, so I took the accounting path.
Which source of news do you prefer – print, online, TV, or radio?
I prefer online news because it’s quicker to read. However, I still like to watch the 10 p.m. news every night on TV.
What is your “go-to” first thing in the morning?
My go-to in the morning is first coffee, then email!
Have you ever been mentored or mentored someone else?
Many of our board members of Arkansas Children’s have been mentors to me, likely without them even knowing it! Some of those individuals include: Charlie Whiteside, Phillip Jett, Sharilyn Gasaway, Chuck Erwin, Mark Saviers, Tom Baxter and Ron Clark. We are so fortunate to have dedicated board members who truly believe in our mission and have a passion for improving child health in Arkansas. Our current CEO, Marcy Doderer, and previous CEO, Dr. Jonathan Bates, have also been great mentors for me.
Is your leadership style more hands-on or hands-off?
My leadership style continues to evolve. Early on in my career, I was definitely more hands-on, but over the years, having such an excellent team has helped me be more hands-off. However, they might say I am still pretty hands-on!
In your experience, what is the secret to inspiring others to action?
I think about what inspires me: knowing the “why” behind something and providing that to others. I also try to understand someone’s passion and help paint a picture of the future.
Which is the last book you read?
Gracious and Strong. It is written by Celia Swanson, who is one of our board members who I admire.
Arkansas Children’s • archildrens.org
Facebook: ArkansasChildrens Twitter: archildrens Instagram: archildrens
LinkedIn: arkansas-children’s-hospital
