Position/Institution: Collegiate Licensing & Special Projects Manager, University of Richmond
Number of years in your position: 1.5
Alma Mater(s): University of Rhode Island, American International College, Johnson & Wales University

Why did you become involved in ICLA?
Through my career, in whatever field I have worked, I have always been involved with a professional group for education, networking, and problem solving. I anticipate the relationship with ICLA will be rewarding.

How has your involvement with ICLA influenced your career?
I just joined ICLA in April. Give me another year and I'll let you know.

If you could choose one (1) amenity to add to the workplace, what would it be?
Sanctioned naptime, and a big cushy couch in my office.

What is the biggest challenge to working in a university environment?
Sometimes it seems that straight lines just don't exist.

What is the most important skill you have developed in your career?
The ability to write and edit; to make order out of chaos.

What hobby would you get into if time and money weren't an issue?
Visit all the pro football stadiums and have really good seats and a sideline pass.

When people come to you for help, what do they usually want help with?
It's that order out of chaos thing (writing and editing).

Why/when did you decide to pursue a career in collegiate licensing?
A year and a half ago collegiate licensing was moved into my department, Campus Services, from another department on campus. This responsibility was offered to me. I am eager to learn new skills, and I have a related background in this area. Job security!

If you didn't have to sleep, what would you do with the extra time?
Anything I felt like!

Who has been the most influential person in your career?
See #11.

Who's your role model? Why?
I can't say I really have a role model but I have been influenced/resemble three women, some real, some fictional. First, there is Julia Child. As a girl, I learned to cook watching her on public TV, and became inspired to follow a foodservice/hospitality/culinary career due to her straightforward and yes, funny, informative narrative. I later met her a few times. Next is Lucille Ball. Some of my life is very "I Love Lucy" in experiences. Finally, I admire Murphy Brown for the take-no-prisoners, forge your own path in life approach. Independence requires a strong backbone and these three had it.

What's your favorite quote?
"Desperation breeds inspiration," coined by me during late night sessions trying to meet magazine deadlines.

What is your biggest pet peeve?
That distinctive snap, crackle, and pop of gum chewing.

If you could turn any activity into an Olympic sport, what would you have a good chance at winning medal a for?
Thinking up clever vanity plates (license plates)

What is the best piece of advice you have ever received?
I've received two pieces of advice that have stuck with me for longer than I care to admit. #1, from culinary school, the highly practical: liquid Cascade dishwasher solution removes chocolate stains from chefs' coats. (Caution: only use on white clothing). #2, meant for a meeting, but applies to so much more: show up, listen carefully, say your piece, let it go. What advice would you give to someone looking to enter the field of collegiate licensing? Learn all you can; details matter.

In your opinion, where is collegiate licensing headed in the future?
It will only increase in importance as universities seek to control and protect their names and marks.

What is your favorite family tradition?
Ukrainian dinners at Easter and Christmas, each of which starts with traditional greetings spoken in Ukrainian. Even after 40 years, my brother-in-law still mangles them. I let him eat anyway.

What are you really good at, but kind of embarrassed that you are good at it?
It involves a cherry stem and, as Forrest Gump said, "that's all I'm going to say about that."

What percentage of your work-week is spent in your office?
90%

What are you most looking forward to at the next ICLA Convention or Winter Symposium?
Getting to know more people and learning how others conduct their programs.

About ICLA: ICLA provides educational and networking opportunities, enhancement of acceptable operating standards and ethics, and establishment of the overall prestige and understanding of the profession of collegiate licensing. For more information on ICLA, please visit www.iclanet.com. ICLA is administered by the National Association of Collegiate Directors of Athletics (NACDA), which is in its 54th year. For more information on NACDA and the 17 professional associations that fall under its umbrella, please visit www.nacda.com.