Tell us a little about your business. – Downtown Lincoln Association (DLA)(downtownlincoln.org) is a nonprofit organization working to make Downtown Lincoln a vibrant place to live, work, visit and play. From maintenance and beautification to economic development and advocacy, we lead and support programs that help Downtown thrive.
How did you get started in the business? – After spending more than 30 years working in the legal world right here in Downtown Lincoln, I decided it was time to switch things up! I wanted to fi nd a position that better fit my fun, outgoing personality and gave me the opportunity to connect with people in a different way. When the opportunity at DLA came along, it felt like the perfect fit. I love being part of an organization that is so passionate about Downtown Lincoln and getting to work with the people and businesses that make our downtown special.
Tell us a little about your family. – I have been married to my husband, Cory, for 25 years and we have two grown and flown kids. Our son, Carson, attends Aurora University in Aurora, Illinois and our daughter, Kamree, attends Kansas State University in Manhattan, Kansas. We also have two pups, Gypzy and Jerzy, and they bring so much love, happiness and maybe a little chaos to our empty nest!
What is your favorite thing to do on a day off? – I enjoy spa time and taking day trips. In fact, I am always up for an adventure or the next boutique hop!
If you could choose only one descriptive word to be remembered as, what would it be? – I say kind. However, my co-workers say fun!
What is your favorite local Lincoln restaurant? – Lazlo’s! In fact, I could eat their creamy garlic dressing every day!
What local nonprofi t organization(s) are you passionate about or involved with, and are there any special reasons why? – Breakthrough T1D (formerly the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation) is near and dear to my heart because I was diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes at age 20. Diabetes is an invisible disease that most people can’t begin to understand so education is so important.
If you could choose any other profession to be successful in, what would it be? – I think it would be fun to be a retail buyer for boutiques.
If you could have dinner with one famous person from the past or present, who would it be? – Taylor Swift. I love her music!
What is your favorite quote? – “Do more of what makes you happy!” I think creating a happy life is so important!
What is your favorite movie? – 50 First Dates. I love any movie with Drew Barrymore!
What do you see as one of the biggest turning points in your life? – Definitely becoming a Mom. I have enjoyed every stage of parenting and I especially love watching my grown and flown kids follow their dreams.
What talent would you most like to have? – I wish I had a creative bone. However, I don’t. Therefore, I have a secret addiction to Pinterest!
If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? – You can contact me via email at jodee@downtownlincoln.org.