March is Women’s History Month, who is the woman who has impacted your life most throughout the years?
My mom. From as early as I can remember she brought creativity, passion, and whimsy into my life. Unsurprisingly, we were regulars at the Women’s Rights National Historic Park in nearby Seneca Falls, NY – even volunteering at the age of 10 for the 75th anniversary of women’s suffrage and seeing then First Lady, Hillary Rodham Clinton speak. A harbinger for my education at an all-women’s college (Smith!) and eventually working as an intern for Senator Hillary Clinton.
What do you like most about working at McKinsey?
The people, the clients, and the problems we get to solve. I am inspired every day by the crew I surround myself with and the clients we serve together. Some of my most important lessons I’ve learned from my clients – namely my workshop facilitation mantra – “the wisdom is in the room” - I do not need to have all the answers.
What did you want to be while growing up (you can’t say a consultant)?
Many, many things – professional oboist, rower, veterinarian, teacher, and farmer. The latter of which is likely to be my next chapter as I take over the family farm in a few years.
What piece of advice would you give to new hires?
You are here for a reason – contribute to problem solving beyond your workstream – you have a valuable perspective to offer that helps us get to a better answer with our clients.
When you are not working, what are you doing?
Likely a mix of outdoor activities – skiing, whitewater, tending my garden in Ann Arbor, or perfecting my sourdough bread baking and watching a ton of college football & basketball (Go Blue!!)
What is one fun fact about you that most people do not know?
Before grad school, I lived in a yurt in the Adirondack Mountains and worked as a ski patroller and whitewater rafting guide.
What is your favorite thing about Detroit?
The resiliency of the city – there is so much to explore from museums (DIA, Motown Museum), to food (Selden Standard is one of my favorites), to Eastern Market, music and sports. It’s so vibrant and I welcome everyone to come visit.
What was the last good book you read?
Circe – mesmerizing story and my own reminder of courage, strength, and toughness. A colleague recommended it to me when I was facing a particularly challenging setback. I highly recommend it.
Are you more of a coffee or tea person?
Hands down, coffee. I have my own home-roasting operation set up in the basement. Let me know if you want recs on where to buy green beans. I love exploring tons of origins and roasting techniques.
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