What brought you to A Kid’s Place and when did you get involved? Maureen and Bob Polo introduced me in December of 2022.
What inspired you to become and remain a donor & volunteer of AKP? After attending a tour and lunch with the CEO Brad, Samantha Mellen, and several of my clients, I gained a much deeper understanding of AKP’s mission and the meaningful impact it has on the lives of children. Hearing their stories was inspiring.
What part of your involvement has meant the most to you? Knowing that by contributing to AKP, it helps the children have a more promising future and a safe place that creates an environment they can thrive in.
What is your favorite indoor/outdoor activity? Outdoor activities I enjoy are scuba diving and traveling with family and friends. For an indoor activity, I’d be enjoying music either at home or a live band.
What would you do (for a career) if you weren’t a in your current position? I would be a professional artist and teach art/painting.
If you could have dinner with anyone, living or dead, who would you want to meet? My Grandmother.
What three traits define you? Conscientious, straightforward, compassionate
How do you define success? Attainment of goals centered around body, mind, and soul, holistically. Helping other people and communities do the same. Success is witnessing the joy when someone reaches a goal and then being able to continue encouraging them to keep climbing so they can help others.
Who inspires you? Marie Curie – won two Noble Peace Prizes. Among laureates she is the first woman, first double winner, and the first (and only) in two different scientific fields-Physics & Chemistry.
What was the last book you read? Like Mother, Like Mother by Susan Rieger
Guilty Pleasure Food? Fresh cut French fries with side of mayo
Proudest Moment? Birthing my son.
What is a secret talent that no one knows? I play piano.
What is your favorite family tradition? Cooking together traditional Slavic dishes like roasted lamb dinner.
What is your favorite thing about Tampa Bay? The weather!
If you could be a superhero what would your power be? Matter manipulation.
Words of advice? Surround yourself with people that are more successful than you. Learn from them. Don’t be afraid to let others know you are interested in learning from them and block out time to do this. Listen more, talk less, and take good notes.
