FEatured FEWs

DECEMBER'S FEATURED FEW:  Doreen Meier Human Resources Business Consultant - HR Simplified FEW Member since: 20+ Years Hometown: Richmond, MN Family: Husband, Tom, Two adult sons, Dustin (22) and Ben (18) What do you actually do at work?: I design strategic HR initiatives and provide HR support to organizations.  What was your first job (ever)? Cashier at Menards in St. Cloud Do you have a mentor? Yes Last vacation spot? Costa Rica-It is my favorite place to go! Biggest indulgence? Taking a 2-hour nap! What do you do for fun? I enjoy spending time with friends and family. I also love doing adventurous things (e.g. hiking, camping, motorcycling).  What one word would friends say best describes you? Authentic What would other FEW members be surprised to learn about you?  I have accepted a full-time position as the Director of Human Resources at St. Cloud Ear, Nose & Throat Clinic, effective December 30, 2019.

NOVEMBER'S FEATURED FEW:

Sally Jo Baumgartner

Esteemed Retiree

FEW Member since THE BEGINNING! 1982

Hometown: Grand Forks, ND

Family: Jeff Baumgartner who worked at UBS (formerly Piper Jaffray) for 39+ years - Daughter - Kendall and her spouse Josh

What do you actually do at work?

Before retiring I owned and operated a candle factory for 15+ years in Pequot Lakes, MN

What was your first job (ever)? 

My goal during high school and college was to have a different job every summer which could expose me to new experiences.  The first was the most disgusting - washing glass tubes in a hospital lab.

How do you help others succeed?

First - listening and more listening followed by facilitating networks and sources for new opportunities (am currently assisting someone looking for a new job in the Brainerd area).  If you know of a company looking for someone smart, high energy, outgoing, a quick learner, digitally inclined, flexible and people-oriented with a ready laugh - please contact me!

What does FEW mean to you?

Some of you (including those on the recent WOW trip in September) are familiar with how FEW started. Ten to twelve women in 1982 reached out to other career women in the St. Cloud area to form this new business/networking group.  The group was oriented to establish new contacts/friendships, be exposed to newsworthy topics and perhaps assist women wanting to advance their careers.

It’s been all of that for me through the years and to this day, (some 37+ years later) most of my best friendships have blossomed because of FEW and you.  November, of course, is your annual meeting and soon it will be time to determine whether you will be renewing your membership.  For many, it’s an easy decision but for others, renewing can be a time issue, a budget matter, a career decision, or maybe the emotional/friend connection just isn’t there. 

Although it may not be apparent today, please trust that this organization, FEW, could someday be your link to new discoveries, career connections, a lifeline during challenging times and, for sure, solid gold friendships. 

Last vacation spot?

A few weeks ago to San Diego with my solid gold friend, and fellow FEW founder and friend, Kathleen Bernick.

OCTOBER'S FEATURED FEW:

Sarah Cords

Leadership, Team & Culture Development Facilitator, Certified Dare To Lead Facilitator, Brand & Marketing Strategist

Textile

FEW Member since 2016

Hometown: St. Joseph, MN

Family: I have a wonderful family that includes a hubby, two daughters, Aliyah and Ava, three dogs, and two cats.

What do you actually do at work?

As a leadership development coach & facilitator, I work with individuals and teams toward transformational leadership and operationalizing values. I also work with brands and companies to create strategies that align across the short term and long term growth cross-functionally for sales and marketing (traditional, digital, social, etc.). My branding work affects all aspects of a business and is directly connected to consumer needs, emotions, and competitive environments. I am also working to elevate brands through values-based brand strategies & communication.

How do you help others succeed? 

I believe in lifting others up by highlighting their skills and strengths while always learning, growing, and creating forward momentum. Active listening and being present with people is key.

I recommend (book, movie, show, activity, restaurant, website, etc) and why?

Well, I am very passionate around the Dare To Lead work that Brene’ Brown is pioneering. I recommend to everyone to read Dare To Lead. While my recommendation list is quite long, that bubbles to the surface.

Who was your favorite teacher and what did they teach you?

I am a lifelong learner and have several teachers that have impacted my life. I had a wonderful teacher in college who was passionate about equal rights and feminism that introduced me to some eye-opening authors and resources. I consider my friends and children to be some of my biggest teachers almost daily, as well as my colleagues, fellow board members, committee members, and FEW tribe. We have some amazing leaders in FEW that I continually learn from.

Last book read?

I’m reading Good To Great currently. I just re-read Daring Greatly by Brene’ Brown, and for fun, The Toottooist of Auschwitz by Heather Morris.

Last vacation spot?

Jay Cooke State Park - Camping gives my family the time to slow down and reconnect with each other, nature, and explore.

What's one word that friends say best describes you?

Driven & Attentive ( I had to ask!)

What is your personal or business philosophy?

Foster connection, share resources and always be a learner. Connect with your authenticity, and you will see a shift in who you attract. We all benefit from building others up around us. It’s okay to fail, as long as you learn from the experience and get back up.

SEPTEMBER'S FEATURED FEW:

Carie Essig

Executive Director

Stearns History Museum

FEW Member since 2019

Hometown: St. Paul, MN

Family: Daughters, Elizabeth (10th grader at Sartell) and Anastasia (US Navy Hoorah!)

What do you actually do at work?

Set the vision and tone for guest experiences for all interactions with the Museum.  Supervise an expert staff of curators, educators, and designers who provide exhibits, public programs and fun for adults, children, groups and families. My favorite thing to do at work is to spend time with our members and supporters learning about our shared interest in history.

What was your first job (ever)? 

Babysitting… I loved it.

Are you a task-oriented person or a people-oriented person?

Both. I particularly love it when we can match people and tasks in a way that grow the people and the organization.

What do you do for fun?

Camp, saunter in the woods, garden

Last book read?

A cheap paperback historical fiction. It’s my guilty pleasure when I travel.

Last vacation spot?

True vacation:  Hawaii. Other favorite home away from home is the YMCA of the Rockies in Estes Park, Colorado.

What one word would friends say best describes you?

Fair

What is your personal or business philosophy?

Work hard, tell the truth even when it hurts, and lead by example.

AUGUST'S FEATURED FEW:

Jodi Elness

Director of Recruitment and Admissions

St. Cloud Technical and Community College

FEW Member since first time was in the early 1990's and now for about 10 years

Hometown: Alexandria, MN

Family: Two boys and a significant other

What do you actually do at work?

Attend meetings...just kidding...but I do call myself a professional meeting attender.  I am in charge of meeting the enrollment goals of the college. We have both technical and liberal arts majors and our enrollment numbers have been solid and I am super happy to see the attitudes changing towards students choosing to go into two year programs.

Is your desk/office messy or organized? 

My desk is very messy but I know where everything is. This always surprises me because at home, I hate clutter. I am working hard to simplify my home life and will work on the desk and desk drawers after that. It seems like once you start tossing, it just gets easier.

Do you work in the field you were educated in?

Sort of...my major at SCSU was Mass Communications and Marketing. In the field of college admissions, you need strong communication skills to fill your programs. I don’t think most folks start out with the intention of becoming a college admissions director. But once you find the work, most of us can’t imagine doing anything else.

Biggest Indulgence?

Dairy Queen and the house pizza at House of Pizza.

What do you do for fun?

I love being outdoors. I think nature presents us with so many beautiful sights if we just slow down to look at them. My favorites are four wheeling, camping, hiking, or just sitting in the sun on a chilly fall day.

When you were a kid, what did you want to be when you grew up?

John Denver’s wife. I know that dates me, but seriously, I wanted to live in the mountains, walk in meadows, wear hats and sing songs all day.  I never made it to the mountains, I don’t look good in hats, I can’t sing, and I didn’t marry John Denver. I do, whenever I can, walk in meadows. I guess one out of five isn't bad. Time for some new “when I grow up” goals. 

What would other FEW members be surprised to learn about you?

That I am an introvert and describe myself as dorky. I am happiest in a comfortable chair, outdoors, reading a book, with no interruptions.

What is your personal or business philosophy?

I would say that it has changed over the years. What once seemed important seems just silly now. It’s not about how much money you make or how important you think you are at your job. What is important is how you treat people, how you treat yourself, how you spend your time, how you spend your money, your health and making the most of each day. I always say I wish at the age of 25 I knew what I know now.

JULY'S FEATURED FEW:

Sarah Noble 

Associate Advisor

AIS Planning

FEW Member since October 2018

Hometown: Morris, MN

Family: Husband: Andy, Children: Alexandra (13), Katelyn (11), William (9)

What do you actually do at work?

I get to build amazing relationships and help people align their life goals with their financial plans! At AIS Planning we help guide our clients by offering objective advice--not tied to any financial company or product-- and we do this by getting to know them deeply and intentionally with thoughtful questions and careful listening. Our motto is: Plan your tomorrow, enjoy your today!

Are you a task-oriented person or a people-oriented person?

People, people, people! I love meeting new people and thrive in environments where connecting is key!

Do you work in the field you were educated in?

No! I never thought I would be in the world of financial planning--in a MILLION years. Ha! Life has a way of helping you get to exactly where you need to be. Through a series of events, I was led to this industry and about a year ago--into the world of planning with clients. I absolutely love helping people and teaching women in particular, that financial planning isn’t “just for the boys”. Learning how to manage your money and be in control of your future gives you freedom, confidence and CHOICES! Who doesn’t love those!?

What one word would friends say best describes you?

Passionate!

When you were a kid, what did you want to be when you grew up?

A teacher! I would force my younger brother and his friends to sit at little desks while I corrected their papers and assigned them homework. Ha! I loved using my creative skills to come up with fun lesson plans and having an organized ‘classroom’ was a thrill at age 10. They still remind me of this and when they do I remind them they have overdue assignments!

What is your favorite (clean) joke?

What is a pirate’s favorite letter?

Answer: You think it’d be “RRR”, but ‘tis the “C” they love! 

Sorry--my 9-year old son gives me the best clean jokes--I had to share!

What would other FEW members be surprised to learn about you?

People are usually most surprised to learn that I was a hockey player! I grew up in a ‘hockey family’, and have been skating ever since I can remember! I played organized girls hockey from the age of 12 all throughout high school for the good ‘ol Morris Tigers. I’m a left-winger with a mean wrist shot! SHE SHOOTS-SHE SCORES!

What is your personal or business philosophy?

Always act with integrity--doing the right thing is never wrong--and the seeds you plant today will bring forth a harvest in due time.

JUNE'S FEATURED FEW:

Cristy Lynn Lahr 

Restaurant Marketing Director and

Catering Coordinator 

Chic-fil-A Crossroads Center Location

FEW Member since 2017

Hometown: Bowlus, MN

Family: Husband, Joe - celebrated 20 years in February. 2 kids - Wyatt is graduating high school this spring; Katie, husband, Tony and Grandbaby Thea

What do you actually do at work?

I am the Marketing Director and Catering Coordinator. I handle all of the catering orders coming into the store. I also work on the advertising, social media, donation requests, community events and networking for this location. Telling people why Chick-fil-A is different and why it’s so great.

What was your first job ever? 

Babysitter, age 13 and Returns Inspector at Fingerhut, age17

How do you help others succeed?  

Build them up. Encourage their strengths.

Is your desk/office messy or organized?

Mostly Organized - messy spaces gives me anxiety

Are you a task-oriented person or a people-oriented person?

Definitely People, get to know the people you are working with and tasks are more fun and get done faster.

What would other FEW members be surprised to learn about you?

Besides being a grandma?.. Lol I was a fitness personal trainer and worked in a gym for 2 years

Last vacation spot?

Went on a Cruise to the Bahamas and Cuba

What is your personal or business philosophy?  

Treat others how you would like to be treated.

Tammy Reis 

Vice President - Loan Officer 

American National Bank of MN

FEW Member since February 2016

Hometown: Osakis, MN

Family: I am married to Paul for 36 years and we have two grown sons who are married, 1 grandson and 1 grandchild on the way. They both live around here.

What do you actually do at work?

I do mostly mortgage loans of all shapes and sizes.  Land Loans, Construction Loans, Home Purchase and Refinance, Home Equity Lines of Credit, Home Improvement and Investment property purchases.  

Do you have a mentor? 

My husband is my mentor. He owns a business and we have lots to talk about each evening!

Last Vacation Spot?  

Ice Fishing in my Ice Castle on Leech Lake

Do you work in the field you were educated in?

I do not. I went to St Cloud Business College for Travel Management and did that for one year and then was hired as a receptionist at a bank in Edina and I’ve been in banking ever since.  I have learned from many great people in this business.

What do you do for fun?

Fishing, hiking, 4 wheeling and snowmobiling

What's one word your friends say best describes you?

Good listener and teacher

What would other FEW members be surprised to learn about you?

I love to play the piano and grew up playing the piano, clarinet and saxophone.  Currently taking piano lessons again at the Wirth Center.

What is your personal business philosophy?  

Be nice, honest and hardworking

Leila Utsch

Alumni Relations Event and Office Coordinator

College of Saint Benedict and Saint John's University

FEW Member since July 2018

Hometown: Paynesville, MN

Family: Jerry Utsch, Children: Josh, Adam, Chris and Carissa. I have 10 grandchildren ages ranging from 18 - 3 years.

What do you actually do at work?

 Along with the director of alumni coordinate and execute all event logistics for all alumni events from organizing and marketing events to registration, payment processing, paying deposits, food, beverages and other event details. Scheduling and event coordinator for the Alumni Board and their four annual meetings. Partner will athletics department and Director of Alumni Relations on J-Club and J-Fund duties, Including scheduling of J-Club Board Meetings, J-Club Events and J-Club marketing and communications. Working with the business office regarding all budgets for the alumni office and events. Other duties as assigned. 

What was your first job (ever)? 

In high school, I worked with two special needs elementary students for an hour and a half, 3 times a week for two years.

Is your desk/office messy or organized?  

Honestly, it depends on the time of the year. During my busy time of the year it is usually a mess but in my quiet time my office is more clean and organized.

Who was your favorite teacher and what did they teach you?

Mr. Novak, American History

Do you have a mentor?

Fr. Don Talafous, OSB

Last book read?

“Room for You” by Beth Ehemann

Last vacation spot?

St. Pete’s Beach and Fort Myers, Florida

Biggest indulgence?  

Peanut Butter Snickers

What do you do for fun?  

Cooking and baking it is my relaxation.

What one word would friends say best describes you?  

Achiever

Maretta Johannes

Licensed Aesthetician/Certified Laser Technician CE,CLT & Licensed Permanent Makeup Technician/Injection Specialist

Omni Cosmetic (St. Cloud & Wayzata)

FEW Member since 2007

Hometown: Sartell

Family: I am married to my wonderful husband Ken; I have a son (Brandon), a daughter (Brittaney), and four adorable granddaughters.

What do you actually do at work?

My focus has always been on using the best technology available to provide the best skin care procedures for men and women under my care at Omni Cosmetic. My specialty is in both non-surgical and non-invasive medical skin care procedures. I do the Halo laser procedure and PhotoFacial BBL treatments to correct my client’s skin damage/sun damage and give them “Halo glow” back to their skin. I love customizing a skincare treatment to help a client achieve desired goals. I have advanced education and training in Sciton laser procedures, SkinPen Microneedling, personalized HydraFacial treatments, Botox, Fillers, and Permanent Cosmetics for signature eyeliner, Microblading for eyebrows and permanent makeup for lip/liner tattooing.

How do you help others succeed? 

By being a good listener, communicating my knowledge to others and by sharing my connections to people; to benefit a person seeking help in growth professionally and personally.

Is your desk/office messy or organized?  

Organized. I am strictly thorough to minute details.

Are you a task-oriented person or a people-oriented person? 

People-oriented person. I love helping my clients like what they see in the mirror.

Last vacation spot?

Jamaica. My beautiful daughter had an intimate wedding on the beach.

What do you do for fun?

I enjoy spending time with my family, volunteering for Church functions; I am an exercise enthusiast and enjoy traveling, reading, walking, and home improvement.

What would other FEW members be surprised to learn about you?

I started out teaching skincare for ten years before getting into medical Aesthetics industry. I continue to enjoy public speaking at events and organizations and sharing my knowledge with Aesthetic students throughout Minnesota.

What one word would friends say best describes you?  

Compassionate