Growing up, my family moved often, which might explain why my career has also taken me on quite a journey. I began my career in Chicago, my first “big city,” where I built a foundation in financial services and fund accounting, spent over seven years growing professionally, formed some of my closest friendships, and met the love of my life. I did it all without owning a car, which still feels like a small badge of honor.
When the world slowed down during COVID, my now-husband and I found ourselves craving space, trees, and a change of pace. We traded the concrete jungle for something greener and moved to Nashville. Not long after, job opportunities came along, and we decided to chase a shared dream of living on the West Coast. We knew San Diego wouldn’t be permanent, given how far away it is from friends and family, but we couldn’t pass up the chance to experience it while we could.
Professionally, the move marked a shift as well. I had spent the early part of my career in traditional accounting and finance, first as a consultant at Ernst & Young, and then in asset management at GCM Grosvenor. The West Coast brought the energy of the fintech space, and with it, my first exposure to venture capital. At Carta, I worked as a fund administrator, partnering with more than a dozen VC firms, from early-stage to well-established, supporting their accounting and operational needs. It didn’t take long before I realized just how compelling the venture world could be. The people were brilliant, the work was fast-paced, and the impact felt tangible. I was hooked.
Three years, our wedding, and a lot of sunshine later, we knew that once our lease was up, we would slowly be making our way back east to be closer to family. That’s when an unexpected email landed in my inbox — a finance leadership role at a venture firm based in Columbus, Ohio. I did a double-take. Ohio? Where I went to high school, graduated from Ohio State with both my bachelor’s and master’s in accounting, and hadn’t returned in over a decade. I figured, why not take the call?
From the very first conversation, I could tell that Drive was different, and I knew right away it was something I wanted to be a part of. Drive’s dedication to backing innovation and talent in the heartland of America resonated with me. I was so impressed that within weeks, we decided to pack up once again and move back to the Midwest.
Today, I’m thrilled to call Columbus home. We’ve found a fantastic walkable neighborhood, a yard for our dog, and a calmer way of life with a deep sense of community. Every day, I get to work alongside some of the smartest, kindest, most driven people I know, many of whom I am fortunate enough to also call my friends. I’m excited for what’s ahead at Drive and so proud to be a part of a team that’s investing in bold, new ideas far beyond the coasts.
