My WICT journey has been a long one, filled with ups and downs (and absences), but I feel like this has been a journey that was crucial to my development both personally and professionally.

I first joined WICT many years ago (I can’t remember the year, but it was pre-2017) because of Leslie Podrasky. Her enthusiasm and dedication to WICT was inspiring to me, and once I was in, I loved the programming offerings, particularly the speed mentoring! Unfortunately, when I first joined WICT, I was going through a period in my life where I had lost all sense of confidence and had become a true recluse, to the point where I barely knew anyone at my company (despite working there for a few years at the time) and wouldn’t even leave my desk unless I had to.

Then, in 2017, my great-grandboss (my daughter decided this terminology sounded better than “boss’s boss’s boss, and I 100% agree) nominated me for Rising Leaders. Massively introverted and insecure little ol’ me applied...and got in...and then flew to SAN DIEGO BY MYSELF and spent an entire WEEK with complete strangers.

It was, hands down, one of the best and most meaningful experiences of my life. That week, I learned I loved my job and how truly passionate I was about closed captioning. I learned I can do things on my own—and do them well. I met some amazing women, some of whom I am still in touch with today. And it prompted me to take an important next step in my journey—joining Toastmasters.

I spent the next few years out of the WICT sphere while I honed my speaking abilities and rebuilt the confidence I had somehow lost all those years ago, but the call of WICT was strong. In 2022, I returned after a stellar Taste of WICT event in Knoxville (Tregaye from Food Network Star was there!!!! I captioned her, y’all!!) and soon enough answered the call for Board Members.

These past few years back in WICT (and particularly on the board) have been so very rewarding for me. This is a sisterhood like you wouldn’t believe. The way the ladies (and men) in this group support each other is so inspiring, and I am so grateful to be a part of this wonderful organization. As Sr. Director of Marketing & Communications this year, my goal has been to make sure we spread the word about how amazing The WICT Network is, particularly our Southeast chapter!