Give us Edina Chamber of Commerce’s Green Umbrella community wellbeing destination initiative elevator pitch.
GreenUmbrella is a health, wellness and lifestyle initiative in Edna. Its focus is on creating a happier, healthier, more purposeful place to live, work and play. It promotes not only physical wellbeing but emotional, social, spiritual, and occupational as well. Through this initiative we will enhance the economic vitality in Edina while helping people adopt healthier behaviors.
What have been the initiative’s most exciting milestones thus far?
I’m not sure that this qualifies as a milestone but I get excited when I see the community excited about what we’re doing. And not just the community of Edina but the Twin Cities and Minnesota. When residents see how GreenUmbrella can positively impact their life and when our community partners feel that GreenUmbrella contributes to the wellbeing and economic development of Minnesota- then we know we are on the right track.
What are the big milestones to come in the next few years for initiative?
Grand Opening of the Wellbeing Accelerator in Fall this year. Launch on our online portal GreenUmbrellaCommunity.com in Q1 2021.
What does leadership look like to you?
I have goals in mind, but I’m open to other perspectives.
I’ll listen to all sides, but I’ll make the tough decision.
I’m not afraid of change. I embrace it.
I’m not risk adverse but I’m a calculated risk-taker.
I understand the value of data, but I also value my intuition.
What is the best advice you have received in your career? What is the worst?
Best: Don’t be afraid to ask for guidance and advise. There are more people out there willing to help you then you think.
Worst: Often well-meaning individuals will tell young people not to go into a specific field because it doesn’t pay well. STOP SAYING THAT! If you’re passionate and excited about your work the money will come and you’ll be a heck of a lot happier. In my business, I see so many people who are in their work for all the wrong reasons and they are miserable.
What have been the most rewarding moments in your career?
At 48 I packed my bags, left and left my comfort zone for a new career and a new life in Minnesota. I am forever grateful to the wonderful friends and colleagues I’ve met on this journey.
What is one personal goal for the upcoming year?
Write a book. (It’s been on my list every year for the last 20 years. May this will be the year!)
How do you relax / decompress?
I’m not at all consistent but I enjoy walking. Especially on a sunny day, when the birds are singing. Even a glass of iced tea on my deck watching the wind toss the flowers back and forth relaxes me.
What do you enjoy most about the Medical Alley community?
Without question, the PEOPLE. The knowledge, support, willingness to help and attitude that we are all in this together for the greater good.
