Current Boards & Committees

Farmer Mac-Chair Strategy, Comp, Public Policy/CSR; True Algae, One More Cloud, Harvest Returns

What is the last book, podcast, article, or show you watched that really stuck with you?

Podcast "The Great Simplification" which explores the relationships between money, energy, environment, geopolitics and the economy and how we can move forward to shape the future.

Coffee or tea?

Tea-English breakfast with half and half

If you could give yourself advice on your first day as a board member, what would it be?

Don't be afraid to speak up when you have something beneficial and timely to add to the discussion, especially if it is an alternative perspective or point. At the same time, treat your words like valuable assets, and don't squander them, lest others value them less.

What's the most memorable trip you've ever taken?

When I was 19, I spent part of a summer in Kenya, with my best friend's family who were living there on an economics sabbatical. It changed my perspective on our place in the world and the role of food and agriculture plays from individual lives to geopolitics.

From your perspective, what are some key traits that the most effective board members possess?

Integrity and honesty top the list. I want to serve with people who walk their talk, have self-awareness and are willing to look at things from other viewpoints.

If you could instantly become an expert in any skill or subject, what would it be?

I would love to be a virtuoso on one of the many instruments I goof around with.

What's the most interesting or unusual job you've ever had?

Running a human genome project lab in the early stages of DNA sequencing.

If you could have dinner with any historical figure, who would it be and why?

Ann Richards is the one political figure I regret not having the chance to meet. I would love to hear her perspective on our current political environment, especially about individual rights and women's issues.

What's your favorite way to relax and unwind?

I have two hobbies that keep me sane. One is riding my horses and the other is playing music. I compete in Working Equitation on my 17-year old Lusitano and am bringing along a yearling to be my next riding horse. Instead of watching TV, most evenings involve playing banjo or guitar and subjecting my husband to my singing.