I was born in Brighton Park on the southwest side of Chicago. I started my career in finance at the age of 17 working for a specialist trading firm on the Chicago Stock Exchange (CHX) while studying finance in night school at DePaul University. After the CHX, I became a valuation specialist, valuing businesses in a variety of financial valuation consulting roles. I served for 15 years in senior positions at BDO USA, P.C., Vantage Point Advisors, Inc. (now Stout Risius Ross, LLC), Cabrillo Advisors, Inc., and American Appraisal Associates, Inc. (now Kroll, LLC), but after having three children, I morphed out of being a valuation practitioner and into being a Connector. I enjoy staying on the forefront of innovation, meeting with diverse founders, CEOs and CFOs to discuss what drives value within their organization.I am passionate about all things #lifesciences #healthcare #biotech #healthtech #technology. I support a community-based mentorship program called the Founders Corner (FC) in Del Mar. The FC supports early-stage life sciences companies by providing access to capital, connections and mentorship through its extensive network of advisors, serial entrepreneurs, Big Pharma decision makers and investors at private touchdown space – the Beach House – in Del Mar, California. I enjoy supporting the overall San Diego startup ecosystem through programs like Founders Corner, Connect, The Brink and others. Outside of my professional life, I enjoy staying active, spending time in nature, writing, and creating fun memories with friends & family. Motto: Carpe Vitam | Seize Life!Areas of interest:• Femtech – cutting edge products and services that support women’s health and wellness • Veterans – support and mental health of US soldiers returning from combat• Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM) Awareness