Background: Social service senior executive at a nationally recognized, innovative welfare-to-work program; university lecturer.

Why I got into public service: When I was young, the people I admired most were all public servants. I remember watching and reading about political leaders like Bobby Kennedy and Hubert Humphrey, who emphasized the obligation of each citizen to play a role in building our country. These values were reinforced by my family and religious upbringing, both of which placed the highest emphasis on the obligation to serve others.

Guiding Value: A successful community depends on each person fulfilling their potential.

#1 Rule of Politics: Just when you think you've repeated a point too much, that's when people start to hear you.

First Job: Newspaper delivery.