10 Questions ...

Profession: Chief people officer for an investment bank

Dog-sport involvement: Primarily conformation, and I have dabbled in dock diving, hunting, rally, obedience and other performance events

Hometown: Montgomery, New York

Astrological sign: Leo

1. Do you have any dog-show superstitions?

One of my quirkiest habits is always wearing two rubber bands on my arm – I can’t risk one breaking when I need it most! Somehow, that extra band makes me feel prepared for anything.

2. TV-show guilty pleasure?

There’s nothing like a great Cinderella story, and “Ever After” is hands down my favorite! I’m such a fan I even named one of my litters after Cinderella.

3. If you were president of AKC for one day, what would you do?

If I could wave that magic wand, I want most for dog shows to be places where everyone feels safe, welcomed and valued. We need to ensure that shows are safe for all, especially children, so families can feel confident bringing their young ones into our community. Inclusivity is also essential; everyone should feel they belong, no matter their background or experience level.

And, of course, fair and unbiased judging is at the heart of a positive show experience. Every dog deserves an honest assessment based on merit, free from any outside influence. By focusing on safety, inclusivity and fair judging, we can create a show environment that truly reflects the best of our sport — where both people and dogs can thrive.

Could I do all that in one day? Probably not, but, hey, it’s my magic wand.

4. Most valued material possession?

I was absolutely thrilled to watch my girl Ella win 2020 Dog of the Year in Mexico. It was right in the middle of Covid, and travel was anything but easy, but I made it!

On my way back home to the States, I spotted this beautiful sterling-silver crown ring and just had to have it. Now, I wear it every single day — it’s become part of who I am and keeps me close to her, no matter where we are.

5. What is something no one would guess about you?

I’m actually quite shy! Around my friends, I feel completely at ease, but it takes a lot for me to step out of my comfort zone to meet new people. It’s funny because my profession often calls for me to be outgoing and approachable, but beneath it all, I’m a pretty private person who prefers to stay in the background.

6. Who would you compare yourself to?

No one. I’m simply me. I don’t need or want to identify as anyone else. I believe in being honest, transparent, and willing to tackle the tough topics. I’m not afraid to challenge the status quo or stand up to self-serving interests that I’ve unfortunately seen in some dog clubs. It doesn’t always make me the most popular, but my integrity is always in the right place, and that’s what matters to me.

7. What are you “famous” for?

Two things! First, because I used to work as a human-resources director for Pernod Ricard, one of the largest premium spirits suppliers in the world, I received a huge supply of alcohol. But since I rarely drink, I became known as the “alcohol basket giver” at raffles.

And the second? My unforgettable dog parties! My favorite was a luau with almost 100 guests. Everyone got leis, danced to a DJ, enjoyed delicious food, and even when it rained, friends pitched in to clear my living room for dancing — it was a day to remember!

8. What website do you visit most often?

Infodog.com. I wish they would go back to pre-Covid times and take entries for all the superintended shows!

9. What was more memorable, your most satisfying win or disappointing defeat? And what was it?

Of course, my most memorable win was when Ella took Best of Breed at Westminster. It was a magical moment that will stay with me forever.

But it’s the defeats that drive us to become better handlers. In the early ’90s, showing my veteran in Best of Breed at a national, the judge pulled me and another dog for a final go-around. It was pouring buckets. I was exhausted, soaked through, and I just wanted out of that ring. I let my fatigue show, and ultimately, I didn’t win.

I’ll never forget that moment. My mentor, Jim Burns, always taught me to keep my dog looking its best, no matter what, and I didn’t that day. That day taught me the importance of perseverance, and it’s something I carry into every show.

10. What do you wish someone would ask you?

I wish people would just go directly to the source — whether it’s me or anyone else — rather than listening to gossip.