Member Spotlight.

Q: What is your educational background? 

I have a bachelor’s degree in Communications with a certificate in HR Management. I continue my education journey by participating in various professional development opportunities related to the OD field.

Q: How long have you been in the OD field?

I have unknowingly been in the OD field for a little over 5 years. My position plays a big role in transformational change and leadership development within the organization. I say unknowingly, because I was not aware that my favorite part of the work had a name until my good friend Carlee, the current chair of MNODN, introduced me to the world of OD. I have been hooked ever since!

Q: How long have you been a member of MNODN?  

I have been a member for almost 8 months, and I have already learned so much from this community! I look forward to the programming a head as I know Alex, our board member for programming, has worked so hard to bring MNODN members some amazing content for the upcoming year. I hope to see you all soon as MNODN kicks off their first program on September 8th!

Q: Why did you join?

Ever since I learned about OD, I couldn’t stop talking about it and wanting to learn more. The only person I could talk about my new passion with was my fiancée, but I understand one can only handle a certain amount of conversations about org transformation and professional development without their eyes glazing over if OD isn’t their thing. When I heard about MNODN, I knew this community would be my people to nerd out with over all things OD! You all have such unique experiences and knowledge, and I learn so much every time I hear your stories. I have loved getting to know the board members and the MNODN members I’ve met at the summer social (shout out to Teresa for organizing a fun summer social). You all have been so welcoming, and I look forward to getting to know more MNODN members!

Q: What advice do you have for people entering the field?

Know the human behind the professional. In other words, take time to get to know the people you work with because they are humans first and professionals second, third, or even last. People have passions, motivations, and experiences outside of work, and if you get to know that, you can easily see how individuals show up at work, react to change, communicate, learn -- everything needed to build trust and work together to effectively create positive change within an organization. I know it’s pretty common advice, but I have had multiple encounters where individuals were so focused to get the work done that they completely neglected the human behind the professional leading to assumptions, lack of trust, and miscommunication. OD can’t exist without people – so let’s not take them for granted.