TELL US ABOUT YOURSELF
I am originally from Grafton, ND and the middle child of three. Growing up in the 80’s was amazing, and little did I know it was shaping me into the person I have become! Listening to music on the radio and tape-recording Bon Jovi or Madonna onto tapes (if you know, you know), bike rides through town, building snow forts, lazy summer days at the local pool, and working three jobs provided great memories, but more importantly showed me the value of friendship, spending time with those who are important, responsibility, and building a strong character and work ethic. After high school, I pursued a degree in Child Development & Family Science from NDSU (GO BISON!), and a few years later moved to Alexandria, MN, where I started my career helping and serving others as an Administrative Assistant in the Human Resources field. I have recently moved back to the Fargo area with my daughter, and I am looking forward to developing relationships at Heartland by providing meaningful service to all our clients!
HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN AT HEARTLAND TRUST?
I have been at Heartland since June 2024.
TELL US ABOUT YOUR FAVORITE LIFE EXPERIENCE
I cannot think of one specific life experience, however, I would say that collectively all of my life experiences have definitely taught me many valuable lessons. The biggest one is everything ends. Hold on tight and enjoy the ride!
WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE MOVIE/PLAY/BOOK?
I am a sucker for a good “who dun it” book or movie.
WHAT WAS THE FIRST CAR YOU OWNED?
The first car that was handed down to me was a silver Mercury Marquis. My friends and I named it “Gil” because it resembled a fish.
WHAT DO YOU LIKE TO DO IN YOUR SPARE TIME?
Summers are best at the lake – I try to spend my free time at the lake doing all lake things – swimming, bonfires, jet skiing, boating, and grilling & chilling. Other hobbies include hiking, traveling, playing tennis, putting together jigsaw puzzles, reading, and spending time with family & friends.
WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE PART ABOUT WORKING AT HEARTLAND TRUST?
When I was first hired, I had the opportunity to ask most co-workers what their favorite part of working at Heartland was – the overwhelming response was the people. I have to agree, Heartland has many remarkable, talented employees who have a common interest…work together to provide the best service possible – internally and externally. There hasn’t been a day that has gone by where I haven’t laughed, smiled, or felt welcomed to the Heartland family.
IF YOU COULD MEET ONE PERSON, DEAD OR ALIVE, WHO WOULD IT BE AND WHY?
Princess Diana is someone I have always admired. She had to deal with so much adversity in her life and overcame it by staying humble and focusing on what mattered in life – her children and charities. She carried herself with dignity, was soft spoken, and yet made an impact on so many people. It would be very interesting to hear her perspective on the royal family and her role as a princess and mom.
DO YOU HAVE A FAVORITE RECIPE YOU WOULD LIKE TO SHARE?
A recent favorite that has been added to our Christmas goodie list…Crack Candy. Easy and oh so good!
1 – 2 sleeves salted saltine crackers – about 45 crackers (Ritz crackers works too!)
1 cup butter
1 cup packed brown sugar
2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
½ cup pecans or other topping (optional) – i.e. toffee pieces, crushed peppermint candies
Sea salt for sprinkling (optional)
Preheat oven to 400 degrees.
Line a standard cookie sheet with foil. Lightly spray to prevent sticking.
Layer crackers evenly over foil – salted side up; spaces between the crackers are ok.
Prepare toffee by combining butter and brown sugar in a small saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
Allow mixture to come to a boil and allow it to boil for three minutes – do not stir while boiling.
Immediately remove from heat and pour over crackers – keeping crackers evenly lined on foil.
Spread mixture with spatula to completely coat crackers.
Place in oven for 5 minutes – toffee will begin to bubble.
Remove from oven and sprinkle chocolate chips over toffee. Return to oven for two minutes, then remove and use spatula or knife to spread chocolate evenly over crackers.
Sprinkle evenly with chopped pecans (or topping of choice) and small amount of sea salt.
Chill in refrigerator for at least 30 minutes or until chocolate hardens. Cut into pieces using a large knife and serve (pieces will not be even).
