Describe your role at Perigee Fund.
I handle all contracts for Perigee. I am the point of contact for every vendor, all day-to-day transactions, payments for contracts and vendors. I set up meetings and phone calls and manage the office.
Related to your role, what are you passionate about and/or what is the philosophy you bring to the organization?
I am very passionate about relationships and maintaining relationships with external partners. I come from consumer banking, and I know how important it is to maintain positive connections with people. What Perigee Fund is doing is so huge. People don’t often realize what traumatic events can do to children’s lives. I bring my experiences to the table, and I really believe in this work.
Tell us a little bit about your professional background, starting with your most recent position.
I started off very young in banking and stayed in the industry for 11 years. I started as a teller, moved up to personal banker, and eventually became assistant branch manager. But I had to think longer term, as several branches were closing, and I needed flexibility in my work schedule so I could be there for my kids. I knew Perigee was the right place for me.
What excites you about working with Perigee Fund?
I was drawn to Perigee Fund because of its mission. My family had a lot of bumps along the way when my kids were little. Every single person on the Perigee team is truly amazing, and I want to learn from each one. I’m in the beginning of my career of philanthropy. I want to challenge myself, I want to learn. It’s important to have great relationships with grantees; my hope is that when they partner with Perigee, they feel at home.
What is your favorite way to develop early connections with the babies and young children in your life?
The way I connect with children is by holding them, cooking for them, always bringing them around my kitchen table, baking with them. I try to spend time together and interact with them in fun and positive ways.