In honor of International Women’s Day, I thought I would reflect on the women throughout my career who inspired and supported me. None of us thrive alone. I would like to express my gratitude and highlight a few of these remarkable women who have left an indelible mark on my life and career. Most importantly, although we met professionally, I count them each as a friend.
My First Mentor
Erin Niemela, has been impressive since the first day I met her in the late 1990s as the Legislative Director when I was an intern. We bonded over our shared working-class backgrounds (she from Richmond and I from West Sacramento). We both continued our parallel paths in the office, reaching higher positions as we went. Throughout that time I could always be real with Erin and she gave me her unvarnished advice and perspective. We all need a few people to have those candid conversations with about work and life. Later when I decided to start my own business, she was a big cheerleader and supporter. She gave me nuts and bolts advice on how to set up my business. More importantly, she was unflinching in helping me understand my niche in lobbying/consulting and grounded me in the market reality. Perhaps most importantly she picked me up when I was riddled with self-doubt. Throughout our careers, Erin showed me what was possible and what my next role might be.
The Visionary Leader
Cheryl Fields Tyler is a visionary leader. My time with her was challenging for me personally. I had been on a rocket in my career when I decided to switch gears. I left policy/politics to join management consulting. It was hard. I wasn’t naturally suited to the work, and after working in politics, which I found easy, it was an ego blow. Cheryl has grace which people don’t often think about in business but it’s essential. When I started my own business, Cheryl was such an inspiration. She infused a wonderful culture into her company and I learned you truly can create the place you want to work and share that with others. Cheryl inspired me with her innovative ideas and strategic thinking. Cheryl’s ability to anticipate industry trends and adapt to change was truly remarkable. Working alongside Cheryl, I learned the importance of staying ahead of the curve and constantly seeking new growth opportunities. Her passion for her work was contagious and motivated me to push my boundaries and think outside the box.
The Budget Whisperer
Diane Cummins is a legend in Sacramento circles for her in-depth State Budget knowledge. When I started in leadership and Diane served as the fiscal and budget consultant for the Pro Tempore, I was intimidated. Diane’s knowledge is almost unparalleled. I got the education assignment for the Pro Tempore in the spring, right before May Revise. I was young, naive, and had no idea what I was getting into! I would have never survived that first budget cycle without Diane. I asked her questions and for advice constantly and she was always patient and informative. I was so happy when we were reunited at the Department of Finance. Diane taught me what I love–the State Budget. She alone helped me understand its importance, how the process works and the beauty of the Budget. I still seek her advice as someone grounded in both the history of many policy areas but also she guides my thinking about policies.
The Model
Nettie Sabelhaus is another Sacramento legend who I had the honor of serving with in the Legislature and during the Brown Administration. Like, Diane, I was pretty intimidated when I met Nettie. As the Appointments Secretary, Nettie's breadth of knowledge across policy areas is mind-boggling. By some grace of God, Nettie took me under her wing. (As a non-Senate Fellow this was an amazing stroke of luck)! Nettie’s attention to detail (no one can keep track of all those appointments without that) and her grasp of policy issues is unique in my world. Through the Appointments process, Nettie taught me to ‘wonk’ out and get into the weeds to really understand how policies did or did not work. She gave me a wonderful model of being good staff to the members by anticipating their needs, knowing the issues, and doing the work. Candidly, I wanted to be Nettie and Diane when I grew up!
The Supportive Colleague
Kim Craig, we have been forged in fire. We met in the State Budget process when I was with leadership and she with the Budget Chair. Right away I knew Kim was a quick study in both politics and policy. Later we reconnected in the Governor’s office in high-pressure but exhilarating roles. I often describe her as my other brain because we so often view problems in the same way. We still use each other to gut-check on tactics and personal lives to ensure we have not lost our way. When I started my business, Kim calmed my nerves and boosted my confidence. I always have fun with Kim and she helps me not take myself too seriously.
Conclusion
I am eternally grateful for the women who have inspired and supported me throughout my career. Their guidance, mentorship, and unwavering belief in my abilities have shaped me into the leader I am today. I hope to pay it forward by mentoring and supporting other women in their professional journeys.
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