With nearly 25 years in the event management field, I have a blend of expertise in hospitality, operations, and strategic event planning.

My journey began with my family’s business, Lake MacBride Golf Course in Solon, Iowa, where I served as General Manager. In this role, I oversaw all aspects of the business, from daily operations and sales to marketing and community engagement. During my tenure, I renovated the clubhouse to establish Lake MacBride as a popular event destination, known for seamless event execution and welcoming service. My team and I coordinated a wide range of events, including charity golf outings, member tournaments, weddings, graduation parties, fundraisers, and corporate gatherings.

In 2010, I joined the University of Iowa’s Tippie College of Business as its first Special Events Coordinator. Here, I organized high-profile events that supported the college’s mission and strengthened engagement with alumni, donors, students, and faculty. I designed and executed donor receptions, alumni gatherings, and large-scale conferences, ensuring that each event reflected Tippie's commitment to excellence and community-building.

When the Event Management Certificate launched in 2013, I was invited to join the faculty as an Adjunct, and my passion for teaching blossomed alongside the program’s growth. In 2017, I transitioned to full-time faculty, sharing my industry insights with students in courses like Foundations of Event Management, Venue Management, Crisis Management, and Experiential Marketing. Today, I’m thrilled to support the next generation of event professionals, blending academic rigor with hands-on expertise to prepare them for a dynamic field.