Education: Bachelor’s in political science from SUNY: College at Geneseo, secondary teacher certification (social studies) from Iowa State University, master’s in political science from Iowa State University

Hometown: Des Moines (Growing up: Ossining, N.Y.)

Family: Husband John, sons Hunter, Cole and Sam

Hobbies: Hiking/camping, gardening and cheering on my sons at their college rugby and football games

Three notable accomplishments: 

• In 2009, at age 38, I was appointed chief of staff to first lady Michelle Obama and assistant to President Barack Obama, helping shape national initiatives on military families, healthy eating and volunteerism.
• In 2024, I received an honorary Doctor of Laws degree from SUNY Geneseo in recognition of my lifelong commitment to education, civic engagement and public service.
• In 2024, I championed efforts to remove cellphones from classrooms across the district. Pilot data showed a 30% improvement in student grades and measurable gains in school climate and sense of belonging. Based on these results, a district-wide policy is now being implemented.

How have you helped improve organizations you’ve been a part of?

I have always put the voices of stakeholders/consumers at the center of decision-making. The best policies are ones informed by the voices of the people most affected.

What motivates you?

Competition.

Is there a memory or experience from your formative years that continues to influence your approach to life?

When I was 8, I played on the boys’ soccer team because there wasn’t a girls’ team. I didn’t realize at the time how significant that was. I learned to hold my ground — elbows out, unafraid to push back — and not think twice about it. From a young age, I learned what it meant to be a woman in a man’s world, and that experience has served me well in many roles since.

What piece of advice would you give to others who hope to make a difference in their communities?

This community needs bold decision-makers and team players — I aim to be both. I’ve learned to read the room and shift gears: Some days call for democracy, others demand a benevolent dictatorship. If a firm decision is needed, I’ll make it. If it’s time to build consensus, I’ll lead from behind and make sure every voice is heard.

What’s a current goal or accomplishment you’d like to achieve?

I recently had rotator cuff surgery and my progress has been slower than anticipated. My goal is to return to doing triathlons and complete an Olympic or sprint triathlon in fall/winter 2025 or spring 2026.

What is a favorite book, show, movie, podcast, etc., that you’d encourage others to consume?

This question does not bring me joy; therefore, I am not answering it. Just kidding, the movie “Almost Famous.” “It’s all happening!”

How do you try to find balance and joy in the many activities you take part in?

Balance is not easy – we all carry a lot on our shoulders. Breathe.

The older I have gotten the more I realize joy is everywhere – if you are present.

Be grateful for the little things.

What is one of your guilty pleasures?

CANDY! SweeTarts, Starburst and Sour Patch Kids!

What’s something many people don’t know about you?

I secretly hope that I will be discovered and be the next Barbara Walters.

Anything else you want to add about yourself?

When other people look at my resume, they see a zig-zag path of cool experiences. When I look at my resume, I see a story of a woman whose life’s work has been centered around the goal of empowering people and organizations to have societal impact. Whether it is as a teacher – empowering high school students to use their voice and advocate for their interests with government; or as a political aide – empowering some guy named Barack Obama with the help he needed to become the first African American president; or as the Goodwill CEO – empowering Central Iowa to see that every person with barriers to employment and every used donation deserves a second chance. For me, all of my work has been to make our community, state or country better.

Read about all of the 2025 Women of Influence honorees