Interviewed by Anailis Diaz
Tell us a bit about yourself! Let our readers get to know you on a personal level.
I am a mom of two daughters and two Mini Goldendoodles Tory and Bella. I was born and raised in Ottawa Canada. I have been with Vero Orthopaedics for 21 years and have really grown to develop a passion for what I do. I was a dancer for most of my life and have taught all styles of dance (jazz, tap, and contemporary for the last 15 years) I currently have a house divided with one daughter studying Accounting at Florida State and another studying Medicine at the University of Florida.
Can you tell us about your early career and your journey to get where you are?
My original journey started in the clinical department as an Orthopedic Technologist. I realized that my passion was on the administrative side about three years into my time at Vero Orthopaedics and began studying Health Administration.
What do you like to do with your free time? Any hobbies or passions?
During my free time, I like to spend time reading, playing with my Goldendoodles, and spending time with my family.
Do you have a mentor? Can you share the impact that person or people have had in your life?
My mentor is the prior CEO of Vero Orthopaedics. She believed in me before I believed in myself and was my motivation to pursue the Administrative side. Approximately a year after I finished school she was diagnosed with cancer and had to take an indefinite leave. I transitioned into my current role with her help while she underwent Chemotherapy. Unfortunately, she passed away a year later. This forced me to take on the role of CEO without much experience at the time, however, the skills she taught me and the years we had together have shaped me into the Administrator I am today.
In your current role, what do you believe has the most significant impact?
Servant Leadership. I believe in serving others and taking care of my staff, physicians, and patients first and foremost. They are what make our business succeed.
How would others define your communication style? Do you prefer to be close to your employees or maintain a healthy distance, and why?
I have a very Open Door communication style. I don't believe in the chain of command and take the team approach to management. Staff can come to my office anytime and I'm happy to spend time talking with them.
What is the biggest challenge you have faced in your career? How did you overcome it and what did you learn from it?
The biggest challenge was definitely taking on the role of CEO quickly and without much training. It has taught me that when life throws you challenges you need to keep pushing forward no matter what the obstacles are.
What’s the most enjoyable or fulfilling part of what you do?
Knowing that I am providing the best Orthopedic care possible to the Indian River County community.
What makes your practice stand out from the rest?
We have open access scheduling offering same-day appts for patients and we work hard to recruit top-quality well trained sub-specialized physicians to ensure patients are getting the best treatment possible. We also offer a one-stop-shop for all ancillary services (MRI, PT, DME) making It more streamlined for the patient.
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