Inspired by Women’s History Month — this spotlight series celebrates the diversity which drives our success, fosters strong values, and uplifts every individual to become the collective heart of Annalect culture. Join us in recognizing the talent, inspiration, and valuable insights contributing to our vibrant and inclusive community.
What do you like to do when you’re not at work?
Being active is important to me. Most days you’ll find me in yoga or pilates classes. As soon as the weather warms up in Brooklyn, I’ll be riding my bike around Prospect Park to prepare for this year’s Five Boro Bike Tour — a 40-mile bike ride through New York City. I’m riding in memory of my sister, to raise money for the American Heart Association.
I try to read at least one book per month, and enjoy many genres. This past weekend, I finished Don’t Believe Everything You Think by Joseph Nguyen. In it, there’s a great quote from Steve Jobs, which serves as a powerful reminder to trust your intuition:
“Have the courage to follow your heart and intuition. They somehow already know what you truly want to become. Everything else is secondary.”
I also enjoy spending time with friends, family, and my two fur-babies. The pups recently re-ignited my passion for sewing — I’m trying my hand at making dog-hoodies!
What is your proudest professional achievement?
I’m proud of my whole career, but if I had to choose one moment, it would be seeing Omni (the marketing operating system I work on) featured in The Wall Street Journal.
I’m lucky to work in a field that fuels both my left- and right-brain — and keeps me engaged in creative problem-solving. I genuinely love building products.
In celebrating Women’s History Month, who or what is your biggest inspiration?
Women who carve their own path … that push boundaries and societal norms … women who have the strength to conquer their dreams, no matter what obstacles are in their way … the ones that own who they are, unapologetically, with grace … those are the women that inspire me.
Diane Furstenberg is one of them. I read her memoir, The Woman I Wanted to Be, and was awed by her story. Having a mother that barely survived the holocaust imbued her with tremendous drive. She brought innovation to the fashion industry during the 1970’s in the form of the Wrap Dress, a design that’s relevant to this day. She’s deeply involved in philanthropy through a women’s leadership organization called Vital Voices, and her family foundation, which supports a variety of nonprofits.
Diane’s grandmother taught her to always “assume-toi,” meaning “own yourself.” That phrase reminds me to stay confident in who I am. It’s literally tattooed on me.
What message do you have for women who may be early in their career and looking to grow into positions of leadership in their schools, workplaces and communities?
Create a strong network, both professional and personal. A diverse network offers insight and support, with a wide range of perspectives. Surround yourself with people who’s skills and strengths are different than yours. A strong professional network will help expand your knowledge and support your growth. A strong personal network will support you through twists and turns in life.