How long have you been an FCCMA member, and why did you join? I initially became a member as a fellow in 2018. I’m pleased to have recently rejoined, now in a new capacity aligned with my current role.
Are you an ICMA member? Why did you join, and how long have you been a member?
I became an ICMA member in 2021 while I was a student at Auburn University, where I also served as Vice President of the ICMA Student Chapter. In 2022, I was selected as an ICMA Local Government Management Fellow, an opportunity that ultimately led me to my current role with Pinellas County.
Please describe your areas of formal/advanced education.
I hold a Master’s in Public Administration and a Bachelor’s in Secondary Education with a concentration in History. In addition, I’ve earned a Local Government Manager certification from ACCMA and a Women in Leadership certification from Georgia College and State University.
Why did you select a career in public service?
I’ve always felt a strong calling to public service, whether as a teacher, supporting patients in a medical clinic, or in local government. There is no greater reward than helping others through your work. Contributing to the well-being of my community is deeply fulfilling and continues to motivate me every day.
Have you always been in the public sector, or have you had experience in the private sector?
I have spent my entire career in the public sector, driven by a commitment to serving communities and making a positive impact through my work.
Please tell us about your current position and give a brief job description if you are not a City Administrator/Manager.
We recently rebranded my role from Assistant to the County Administrator to Community Coordinator, as the new title better reflects the nature of the position and is easier for residents to understand. I serve as the Community Coordinator for the unincorporated areas of Central and South Pinellas County, acting as a direct liaison between residents and County government. Community members can reach out to me with questions or concerns, and I help them navigate County services and resources. In addition to my liaison role, I also work closely with the County Administrator’s Office to support strategic and long-term planning efforts for these communities.
Please describe your typical day.
This question always makes me smile because there is really no such thing as a typical day in this role, and that is one of the things I love most about it. Each of the ten communities I serve is unique, so my day-to-day varies based on where I am. One day I might be supporting a community event, the next I am holding office hours to connect with residents and answer questions, and another day I could be giving a presentation. It truly depends on the needs of the community that day.
What is your favorite part of the job?
My favorite part of the job is getting to meet and connect with the people I serve. We truly have some of the best residents here in Pinellas County, and their passion for their communities makes the long days and late nights absolutely worth it.
What is your least favorite part of the job?
Honestly, my least favorite part is the drive from one community to the next. My communities cover a large area, and we all know how traffic can be.
If you are involved in any volunteer or leadership activities in your community, please share with us a bit about what you do and why it is important to you.
I am currently in the process of becoming a Rotarian, which I find very exciting. Additionally, I serve on the membership committee for Florida Women Leading Government.
What is your most memorable experience on the job?
My first time presenting to the Board of County Commissioners stands out. Fortunately, it went well and was a valuable learning experience.
What are your hobbies/interests?
I enjoy reading, traveling, Brazilian Ju-Jitsu, mentoring, going to the movies, and history.
If you could give one piece of advice to people interested in a career in public service, what would it be?
As always, I highly recommend the ICMA Local Government Fellowship for those graduating with their master’s because it is an excellent way to jumpstart your career. If you have not graduated yet, consider joining ICMA and FCCMA as a student member. Also, do not hesitate to reach out to professionals in the roles you aspire to. Ask if you can meet for coffee to gain insight into their position and learn about steps you can take to move toward that career path.
Who were your mentors, and how have you passed this information down to other aspiring public administrators?
My list of mentors is long and meaningful. It began with Dr. Jonathan Fisk, a professor who encouraged me to pursue this field. Then Al Jones gave me my first internship, which was a pivotal experience. Since then, many people in Pinellas County have supported and continue to support my growth, including Barry Burton, Jill Silverboard, Tom Almonte, Chris Rose, Jim Abernathy, Amy Davis, Kelli Levy, Dr. Cynthia Johnson, Barbara Hernandez, Kathy Perkins, and many others. I am deeply grateful to all of you.
What career would you pick if you were to pick another?
If I were to choose another career, I would probably become a historian. I absolutely love history and history education, so in another life, I think I would have enjoyed being a professor, specifically focusing on Middle Eastern History.
Do you have a story you can share about how being a member of FCCMA has helped you or impacted you in a positive way?
Conferences are invaluable opportunities to connect with individuals who truly understand your challenges. The chance to share knowledge and learn from others’ experiences is incredibly rewarding. I always leave feeling inspired by the new ideas and perspectives.
