March 22, 2021

Please describe your role with your County:

My role in Lassen County is to provide leadership to the directors and staff of the many health and social services programs we offer to our community members. I am responsible for administering these programs in the most efficient and effective manner with the goal for all to stay health informed.

What motivated you to enter public service?

My motivation to enter into public service follows the pay-it-forward philosophy. I have been blessed to have crossed paths with many wonderful people that have been there for me, particularly during some very difficult times. I am forever grateful to those people. It is my hope that I can give to others through my public service just as others have given to me.

Is your glass half-full, or half-empty?

My glass is absolutely half-full! Every drop has a purpose and with a glass being half-full, there is plenty of room for opportunity.

What’s the most interesting or fulfilling part of your job?

I find it most interesting working in collaboration with others. The process of coming together with a variety of ideas and walking away with a cohesive plan is both rewarding and fulfilling.

Do you have any words of advice for someone interested in becoming a Health and Social Services Director?

My advice for someone who would like to serve in a leadership role is to communicate effectively. I followed the advice of a previous director. She had a “heads up, no surprises” requirement. It is so much easier if we all communicate, rather than play clean-up later. I also think it is important to never “leave your integrity at the door.” We all have to go home and live with our decisions.