My path to HR has been unconventional but incredibly rewarding.
From a young age, it was clear that I had a knack for communication, which often showed up on my report cards with comments like "very smart; socializes too much." While it may have been a lighthearted remark, it laid the foundation for my future in a people-oriented profession. I found that I excelled in environments where connection, communication, and collaboration were key.
My academic background in Fine Art might seem tangential to Human Resources, but it sharpened my ability to observe, empathize, and think creatively—qualities that are indispensable in understanding and engaging with people in professional contexts. The interpretive skills I developed through art helped me connect with others on a deeper level, which is at the core of effective recruitment.
Following college, I worked in customer service and administrative roles, where I refined my ability to listen, assess needs, and deliver solutions. These experiences helped me hone the problem-solving and interpersonal skills that are essential in Human Resources.
A pivotal moment came when I took an Administrative Assistant position with the County, where I was exposed to the hiring process. This experience solidified my interest in Human Resources, as I realized my ability to manage priorities, understand people’s motivations, and navigate complex challenges made me well-suited for my role as an Employment and Recruitment Specialist. Bringing together my diverse background, I approach challenges with a blend of creative problem-solving and analytical thinking, ensuring that both candidates and hiring managers have a seamless, positive experience.
I play a key role in overseeing Employment and Recruitment.
I lead recruitment efforts, including job posting, candidate sourcing, interviewing, and onboarding. I work closely with Department Directors and Hiring Managers to ensure effective recruitment strategies and compliance with employment laws and best practices. I guide new hires through the onboarding process, ensuring smooth transitions into the workplace. I ensure that recruitment processes align with applicable laws, such as the I-9 process, record management, and compliance with the Affordable Care Act (ACA). I provide Human Resource advice to Departments on matters of employment, hiring procedures, and general Human Resource practices. I aim to resolve any employment-related questions and provide expertise on improving Human Resource systems.
I’m driven to help people find opportunities for rewarding careers.
As an Employment & Recruitment Specialist, my motivation lies in helping individuals unlock their potential and connect with opportunities that align with their goals. It's not just about finding a job, it's about empowering people to build fulfilling careers that allow them to thrive professionally and personally.
Your career is a journey, not a destination.
Every step you take, whether forward or sideways, teaches you something valuable. Focus on building skills, expanding your network, and staying adaptable. Success isn't about having a perfect plan, but about being ready for opportunities when they arise.
Driving HR Excellence through innovation, creativity, and growth.
One of the things I’m most proud of is my ability to consistently adapt to new challenges and deliver results. Recently, I’ve had the opportunity to contribute to several essential projects, from playing a key role in the implementation of the myHire/PageUp software which helped optimize the recruitment process and improve efficiency to collaborating in the creation and launch of the James City County Career Center. Additionally, I earned my SHRM-CP certification, further enhancing my expertise and commitment to HR best practices.
