I work hard to understand people. Whether as a husky 8-year-old in corduroys on the playground or a Vice President in a tie and suit at a conference I’ve always been curious about the stories others have to tell. It’s what I first loved about opera when I was 22 and left the U.S. to pursue my dream of becoming a singer in Italy. That even before I understood the language if I took the time to really listen I could understand the story. It’s what I loved about being a teacher. That each student had a unique experience that they brought to learning. It’s what has made me successful at developing partnerships. My desire to listen and find a solution that actually works for all stakeholders.Over my 20 years of progressive global management experience with for-profit and not-for-profit organizations, I have had the good fortune to travel and work with people and businesses from every part of the world. In that time, I have effectively articulated the value proposition of a study abroad company to a global audience of students, parents and administrators through comprehensive rebranding. I have increased sales by over 15% through organizational restructuring and employee development. I have created new business opportunities by cultivating new markets and designing different product models. I have implemented complicated technological solutions and streamlined business processes. I have represented organizations at hundreds of conferences, meetings and events. Most importantly, I have left every organization that I worked for in a better position than I found it. They left me better than they found me as well. All because I was willing to listen to, learn from and try to understand others. I am still listening.