The Kids & Pets Edition
Step aside dad jokes, it’s time for some dog jokes. Did you know taking a dog named Shark to the beach is a bad idea?
Why did the new owner name his dog 5 Miles? So he can tell people he walks 5 Miles every day. What do you get when you cross a dog with a calculator? A best friend you can count on.
Ba-dum-tishhh! You’re welcome, readers. It’s our Kids & Pets Edition! Pets have a way of becoming family, and both kids and animals leave fingerprints and paw prints on our hearts... and just about every clean surface in the house.
To all the moms, dads and caregivers—we see you. You’re juggling schedules, wiping sticky hands and muddy paws, cheering from the sidelines and creating meaningful moments that shape who your children become.
Children are more than the future—they’re the heartbeat of our community. Their joy, curiosity and limitless potential inspire us to build a community rooted in connection, compassion and hope.
I think about my two nieces, Josette and Kensington, pictured above with me at one of our favorite local pizza spots, Cugino Forno. As they grow, my prayer is that they always know they are deeply loved, valued and capable of becoming everything God created them to be.
The beautiful thing is that none of us shapes the next generation alone. Every coach, teacher, business owner, volunteer, neighbor, grandparent and parent has the opportunity to leave a lasting impact.
I’m grateful for the many ways Frederick invests in children and families. If you’re someone actively making that happen, thank you. The stories ahead celebrate people and organizations creating places where kids are encouraged, families are strengthened and our community grows stronger together.
The fingerprints will wash away. The paw prints will fade. But the love we show, the encouragement we give and the lives we invest in will last for generations.
Growing together,
August 2026
PUBLISHER
Amber Smith | Amber.Smith@citylifestyle.com
PUBLICATION DIRECTOR
Sierra Stults | Sierra.Stults@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Jeremy Wojdan, Kristen Wojdan, Dr. Cheryl Cioffi, Danielle M. Rizzo, Kali Kasprzyk, Amy Tinnin, Sierra Stults
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Rudy Marsh of Lytebox Photography, Casey Dugue
Photography LLC, Liz Hough of Hough Photography, Janie Jones, Illustrator Shelby Stults
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
President Matthew Perry
COO David Stetler
CRO Jamie Pentz
CoS Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Zach Miller
LAYOUT DESIGNER Andi Foster
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Megan Cagle
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develop their game through technology-driven basketball training and expert coaching. Programs include individual training, small group sessions, shooting development, ball handling, finishing and basketball IQ. Using real-time data and personalized instruction, players receive measurable feedback designed to accelerate improvement. New athletes are invited to experience a free one-hour workout and discover how data-driven training enhances performance. Learn more and schedule your free workout today at Shoot360.com/Frederick.
Local Expert Helps Families Maintain Organized Homes
From muddy paw prints and scattered toys to everyday family chaos, a well-loved home naturally comes with a little extra mess. For more than 15 years, Sandra’s Cleaning & Organizing has been helping Frederick families maintain clean, comfortable and organized homes. Offering cleaning, organizing and other services, Sandra and her team are known for their attention to detail, reliability and genuine care for their clients. When life gets busy, having trusted, helping hands can make all the difference. SandrasCleaningAndOrganizing.com
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ELEVATEing Education
How a New Homeschool Co-Op in Frederick Is Building Students, Strengthening Families and Creating Community
ARTICLE BY JEREMY & KRISTEN WOJDAN
PHOTOGRAPHY BY RUDY MARSH, LYTEBOX PHOTOGRAPHY
Homeschooling has experienced significant growth across the country, with millions of K–12 students now learning in home-based educational settings. Nationally, approximately 5–6% of school-aged children are homeschooled, and that trend is reflected throughout Maryland. As homeschooling has grown, so has the understanding of what it looks like. Today’s homeschool experience is far different from the stereotypes of decades past. Parents now have access to a wide range of resources and opportunities that allow them to customize an educational experience based on their child’s unique needs, interests and goals.
Frederick County is home to a vibrant and growing homeschool community, with many co-ops and enrichment programs supporting families on their educational journey. These communities provide opportunities for students to learn alongside peers, build relationships and develop new skills. Modern homeschooling recognizes that learning happens everywhere. Through community partnerships, service projects, internships, athletics, travel and hands-on experiences, students discover that the world itself can become a classroom.
As the homeschool landscape continues to expand, innovative programs and community partnerships are creating new possibilities for students and families. As founders of ELEVATE Scholar-Athlete Leadership Academy, we are grateful to be part of this growing community and excited to share more about the heart, vision and partnerships that are shaping this new opportunity for middle and high school families.
What is ELEVATE and why was it created?
Opening in August 2026, ELEVATE ScholarAthlete Leadership Academy is a Christ-centered homeschool co-op and enrichment program serving middle and high school students. While most students come from Frederick County, others travel from surrounding counties and neighboring states. Through experiential learning opportunities, ELEVATE seeks to complement and support each family’s homeschool journey.
Our mission is to develop students who pursue excellence in mind, body and spirit through meaningful relationships, disciplined athletic training, experiential learning and leadership development. Our vision is to equip students to live with confidence, humility, resilience and purpose—on the court and in every arena of life.
ELEVATE was created to provide meaningful opportunities for students to grow during
these formative years. Our desire is to partner with families by providing experiential learning opportunities, mentorship and authentic relationships that help students discover their unique gifts, strengthen their character and develop the confidence and resilience needed to pursue their purpose. As a homeschool co-op, parents are an important part of the experience, with many serving as volunteers and helping create a supportive community that enriches student learning and strengthens relationships among families.
At its heart, ELEVATE exists to help young people discover their purpose and grow into servant leaders who are prepared to positively impact their families, communities and the world around them.
What makes ELEVATE unique?
ELEVATE is intentionally designed around four pillars: Discipleship, Leadership, Scholarship and Sportsmanship. Through a blend of athletic fitness and training, academic enrichment, leadership development, service opportunities and Christ-centered community, students are encouraged to grow intellectually, physically, spiritually and relationally. Each co-op day concludes with student-athletes participating in basketball or volleyball clinics, allowing them to develop their skills while learning the values of teamwork, discipline and sportsmanship.
Our goal is not simply to help students become better athletes or stronger students. We want to help them become young men and women of character who are prepared to lead and serve others.
Founders
Jeremy and Kristen Wojdan launched ELEVATE to invest in students, strengthen families and support the homeschool community.
What does homeschooling look like today?
Homeschooling today looks very different than many people imagine. One of the biggest misconceptions is that students spend their days isolated at home with limited opportunities to interact with others. In reality, today’s homeschool community is vibrant, connected and full of opportunities for students to build friendships, collaborate with peers and develop important social and leadership skills.
There is no one-size-fits-all approach to homeschooling. Families have the flexibility to create a learning experience that best fits their children’s unique needs, interests, goals and learning styles. Many students participate in co-ops, dual enrollment programs, athletics, fine arts, internships, community service and enrichment opportunities.
Modern homeschooling recognizes that learning happens everywhere. For many students, the world becomes the classroom. Ultimately, homeschooling gives parents the opportunity to customize an educational experience that helps their children flourish and become all they were created to be.
Building community and celebrating growth are part of the ELEVATE experience.
Technology and training combine to help students grow on and off the court.
Students gain confidence through leadership opportunities and active participation.
Curiosity, character and meaningful conversations shape the learning experience.
Leadership lessons come alive through collaboration, communication and shared challenges.
Students learn skills, teamwork and discipline during sports clinics.
ELEVATE families partner together to create a vibrant community of learning and growth.
Friendships grow through fun, teamwork and experiential learning.
Mentorship meets movement as students develop skills, confidence and character.
How are community partnerships enhancing the ELEVATE experience?
One of the things we are most excited about at ELEVATE is the incredible network of community partners investing in the next generation alongside us. We believe some of the richest learning happens when students have the opportunity to learn from experts, mentors and organizations that are passionate about helping young people thrive.
Partners such as Fellowship of Christian Athletes, True Sports Physical Therapy, Andrew Simpson of Player’s Fitness Performance, Middletown Valley Bank, David Chance of Chance Media & Music Group and artist Yemi Fagbohun bring unique experiences and expertise that enrich our students’ learning. Through these partnerships, students are exposed to leadership, financial literacy, creativity, healthy habits and spiritual growth while building relationships with people who are making a positive impact in our community.
We are also incredibly grateful for our collaboration with Shoot360 Frederick, which we are proud to call home. Owners David and Kelly Crawmer have been generous supporters, and their willingness to open their state-of-the-art facility to ELEVATE has created a unique environment where students can learn, train and grow. Their collaboration has helped make it possible for us to offer an experience that reflects our commitment to developing the whole student—mind, body and spirit.
At ELEVATE, we believe education is strengthened when families, businesses, churches and community organizations work together to help young people grow and thrive.
“Blending academics, athletics and experiential learning to help students grow into confident, purpose-driven young leaders.”
What do you hope students will gain through ELEVATE Scholar-Athlete Leadership Academy?
Our hope is that students grow into confident, humble, resilient young men and women who love God, serve others and use their gifts to make a positive difference in the world.
We hope students develop meaningful friendships, experience the encouragement of mentors and discover the joy of learning, leading and growing alongside others. We also hope ELEVATE fosters a strong and connected community of families who encourage one another and share a common desire to help young people reach their fullest potential.
Ultimately, our desire is to create an environment where students and families feel known, supported and encouraged as they pursue excellence and become all they were created to be.
ElevateStudentLeadership.com
HOW PETS HELP CHILDREN BUILD EMPATHY, CONFIDENCE AND EMOTIONAL RESILIENCE
ARTICLE BY SIERRA STULTS ILLUSTRATION BY SHELBY STULTS
MORE THAN A BEST FRIEND
There is magic in growing up alongside a pet. From the loyal dog waiting by the front door, tail wagging the second a long school day ends. To a cat curled up like a warm weight on the bed while homework gets done, or a clumsy puppy teaching a chaotic household a slow lesson in patience. Our animals do so much more than just fill a house , they are often our very first, and greatest, teachers. For a child, learning to love and tend to a life outside their own isn’t just a chore; it’s a masterclass in empathy, a lesson in unspoken communication and the place where emotional growth begins.
AWARENESS
DECODING THE UNSPOKEN: LESSONS IN BODY LANGUAGE
Long before kids learn to navigate complex social cues at school, they can learn to read the silent language of their pets. Animals can’t tell us when they are tired, frustrated or happy with words, so they use their bodies.
By observing these subtle changes, children develop a deep sense of situational awareness and emotional intelligence:
• A dog’s warning: A lowered tail, rigid posture or turning the head away means, “I love you, but I need some space right now.”
• A cat’s contentment: A slow blink or a relaxed purr is an invitation for connection.
When children learn to respect these physical boundaries, they aren’t just becoming better pet owners…they are learning how to be intuitive, respectful friends to the people around them.
THE POWER OF “ALL HANDS ON DECK” RESPONSIBILITY
“ANIMALS SERVE AS OUR CHILDREN’S VERY FIRST TEACHERS IN EMPATHY, ACCOUNTABILITY AND EMOTIONAL
As any parent knows, the initial excitement of getting a new pet can quickly give way to the daily reality of feeding, walking and cleaning up. But shifting the mindset from a chore to a shared family contribution changes everything. Taking part in a pet’s daily routine…like helping mix a batch of meals or ensuring the water bowl is always fresh, shows kids that their actions directly impact another living being’s happiness and health. It shifts their perspective outward, teaching them the quiet reward of consistency.
The Empathy Connection: Studies show that children who bond deeply with a family pet score higher on empathy and social-responsibility scales later in life.
ACCOUNTABILITY SOLACE
A SAFE HARBOR FOR BIG FEELINGS
Growing up comes with plenty of transitions, tough days and big emotions. During those times when talking to humans feels a bit too hard, a pet provides a judgment-free zone.
An animal doesn’t care about a bad test grade, a missed goal at a track meet or a stressful day at work. They simply offer a comforting presence. Sitting quietly on a bed with a cat or chatting with a dog on an evening walk gives kids a safe space to process their thoughts without fear of correction.
Our pets don’t expect perfection from us; they just ask for our presence. And in return, they teach our kids the most human lesson of all: how to love unconditionally.
ARTICLE BY DANIELLE M. RIZZO AND FAMILY PHOTOGRAPHY BY LIZ HOUGH OF HOUGH PHOTOGRAPHY
Building Strong Family Connections
One Family’s Approach to Creating Connection, Building Traditions and Starting the School Year Strong
I spend a lot of time helping adults and business owners get clear on what they want, build systems that work, and close the gap between where they are and where they want to be. But my greatest leadership laboratory has always been home.
I’m a solo mom to four kids: Cadence, who just graduated high school with highest honors and is heading to the University of Delaware this fall; Branson, entering 11th grade and competing on his varsity track and cross country teams; Kinsley, heading into 8th grade; and Daulton, my youngest, starting 4th grade. Both girls are competitive dancers. And then there’s Delaney, our puppy, who has taught us all something about responsibility, teamwork and patience. In our house, everyone is all hands on deck. We are a loud, busy, real family. We have hard conversations, off days, and moments where someone -sometimes me, needs to be called out. Strong families are built intentionally, consistently and with a lot of grace.
STRONG FAMILY COMMUNICATION
Danielle: Healthy communication in our house means everyone gets a voice, including the person who’s usually telling everyone else what to do. That’s me. We’re not a “because I said so” household. I want
my kids to feel safe enough to be honest and know they’ll be heard.
One of the things I’m most proud of is our family meetings. We do them about twice a year- not just to review schedules, but to have real conversations. And I open the floor for my kids to review me. They get to share their observations of me as a parent in a respectful way. We talk so much about what our kids need to improve, but we rarely ask what they see in us.
Daulton: I feel listened to because my mom shows up to all of our activities, and she always talks to us about our feelings.
Kinsley: Our Sunday family dinners are what keep us close during busy or stressful times.
Branson: Talking isn’t always easy for me, so it helps when I can type out what I’m feeling instead. Having that option makes the hard conversations a lot more manageable.
GOAL SETTING AS A FAMILY
Danielle: With my kids, goal setting is less about strategy and more about identity- who are you becoming ? Growing up we were always asked “what do you want to be when you grow up?”, but when was the last time someone asked you, “who do you want to be?” We celebrate progress, not just outcomes. Effort is a goal. Persistence is a goal. We treat them that way.
“Strong families aren’t built in perfect moments; they’re built through ordinary days, intentional choices and showing up consistently.”
Daulton: I’m really excited for Market Shop Day in 4th grade. And I’m proud that I had perfect attendance last year — I worked hard to show up every single day.
Kinsley: I’m focused on moving up in dance and earning more opportunities. I already earned a dance scholarship that I worked really hard for, and it showed me what’s possible when you stay committed.
Cadence: My biggest motivator is mind over matter- you can do anything you put your mind to. That, plus the encouragement from my peers and my mom. Knowing people believe in you makes it easier to keep going. Receiving my academic scholarships and graduating with highest honors is something I’m incredibly proud of.
“The most meaningful conversations often happen during ordinary moments: car rides, bedtime chats and one-on-one time together.”
Branson: Running a sub-20 in the 5K is something I worked toward for a long time. Crossing that threshold made every early morning and hard practice worth it.
PRIORITIZING ONE-ON-ONE TIME
Danielle: With four kids, shared time is beautiful, but individual time is irreplaceable. A few years ago I started “date your kid.” Each child gets their own afternoon or evening with just me. No siblings, no distractions. They choose how we spend it- within reason and budget of course. What I’ve found is that the conversations during these one-on-one times are completely different. Things surface that would never come up at the dinner table.
Kinsley: Traditions are really important to our family — we always make a big deal out of them. My mom cheering me on at dance is something I’ll always carry with me.
Cadence: All of the talks and research my mom did with me for college - the schools, the scholarships, all of it — made me feel so supported. She didn’t just send me off. She got in it with me.
Branson: Every night my mom sits on my bed and we have our one-on-one chat. It doesn’t have to be about anything big. It’s just ours.
Daulton: My favorite memory is our special date nights together. Just me and mom.
ADAPTING
TO CHANGE & NEW SEASONS
Danielle: This fall is bringing a lot of feelings. Cadence leaving for the University of Delaware is a milestone I’ve been preparing for and at the same time, one I don’t think you ever fully prepare for. I’m learning to hold pride and grief at the same time, because both are true.You spend your life as a parent raising humans
to be confident and live independently without you, but you never stop to figure out how we are supposed to live without them.
What I’ve tried to model for all four of my kids is this: change isn’t a threat. It’s information. Every new school year, new teacher, new team, it’s an invitation to grow into a version of yourself you haven’t met yet. We prepare by talking about it before it happens. Our traditions don’t stop because someone moved to a college campus. They evolve. Even adding Delaney to our family taught us that -when things change, you adapt, you contribute, and you figure it out together.
Cadence and Kinsley: Writing everything down and planning ahead makes transitions feel so much more manageable. When you can see it on paper, it feels less overwhelming.
Kinsley: If I could give another kid going through a big change one piece of advice, it would be this: talk to your parents. Let them understand what you’re feeling and help you as much as they can. You don’t have to navigate it alone.
Strong families aren’t built in a single conversation or a perfect moment. They’re built on ordinary Tuesday evenings, car rides, one-on-one dates, and family meetings where the safe space is created.
This school year, pick one thing. Schedule the one-onone date you keep putting off. Hold the family meeting you’ve been meaning to have. Ask your kid how you’re doing- and actually listen. Families that thrive are usually the ones who keep choosing to be intentional, even when it’s hard, and definitely when it’s messy.
MarielleAgency.com
TREY & KATIE KENNEDY
ON MARRIAGE, KIDS, AND THE COMEDY OF REAL LIFE
Trey Kennedy makes a living finding comedy in regular life. Marriage. Toddlers. Yoga pants. The Thursday-night scramble between school dropoffs, soccer practice, and whatever has to be done by morning. Twelve years in, it shows: millions of followers across every platform, three stand-up specials, a sold-out Relatable Tour, and a style of humor fans send each other captioned, “Are you watching me?” He delivers the kind of comedy that travels because everyone’s living some version of it.
Katie, his wife of six years, is a former biomedical engineer who also built a modeling career. She’s now raising their kids and co-hosting Correct Opinions alongside Trey — the show where the two of them swap takes on marriage, parenting, and whatever came up that week.
Trey has been at this longer than people realize. An Edmond, Oklahoma kid who grew up playing basketball described himself as a “shy kid who never thought he’d be an entertainer.” He started making videos while attending Oklahoma State University. After building millions of followers on Vine before the platform shut down, he gave himself six months on Instagram and Facebook to see whether he could rebuild from zero. He did. Stand-up soon followed. His first special, Are You For Real?, streams on YouTube; the second, Grow Up, on Amazon Prime; the third, built around the Relatable Tour, wrapped earlier this year. “I’ve been trying to be funny every week for like twelve years now,” he says. A slow climb, made one bit at a time.
ARTICLE BY KALI KASPRZYK
JANIE
“I’ve been trying to be funny every week for like twelve years now.”
Most of what Trey writes lately starts in his own kitchen. Thomas is three and a half, and he is, in his father’s words, “a movie.” He narrates his own life from the moment his eyes open and mispronounces words in ways his parents now repeat to each other because no one else would believe them. His younger sister, Eva, is what Katie calls “the calm one.” With a third now in the mix, the Kennedys are officially outnumbered.
After six years of marriage, Trey and Katie have learned that the partnership runs best when it gets its own time on the calendar. So once a week, they leave the kids with a sitter and go out for coffee. “You need a system,” Katie says. “It’s about taking time to look each other in the eye. Not the kids. Not the cameras. Just each other.”
The same instinct shapes the work. Most of Trey’s trial and error happens onstage or on Instagram, but the first read is always Katie’s. “There’s only been one time ever I’ve had to be like, ‘you’re not doing that,’” she says. The rest of the time, she just laughs first.
FEATURING TREY & KATIE KENNEDY
Trey and Katie talk about marriage, parenting, and the moments that don’t make the Instagram feed.
Watch or listen to the full conversation wherever you get your podcasts.
PHOTOGRAPHY BY
JONES HAIR & MAKEUP BY MIKAYLA CRANE
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Homemade Dog Food
Recipe from Amy Tinnin - A Cup Full of Sass
ARTICLE
My two pugs are more than pets—they’re part of the family. That’s why I started making their food at home, and it’s been one of the most popular posts on my blog. You may be surprised just how easy this recipe is. I add all the ingredients to my slow-cooker to cook, and my dogs love it. If you decide to try this recipe for your pet, please consult your veterinarian. Every dog has different needs based on age, weight, and any health issues. You can even share this recipe with your vet to see if any changes are needed. The ingredients are flexible and can be easily swapped to substitute the turkey for chicken or beef, and even try different dog-safe vegetables. Making dog food at home isn’t hard—it just takes a little planning, and my dogs love it.
Slow Cooker Homemade Dog Food
Ingredients:
• 3 lbs ground turkey (85% lean)
• 1¼ cups frozen sweet potatoes
• 1½ cups frozen peas and carrots
• 1 cup frozen spinach
• 1½ cups uncooked brown or white rice
• 4 cups water
Directions:
1. Add all ingredients to a slow cooker.
2. Break up the ground turkey and mix all the ingredients.
3. Cover and cook on High for 3–4 hours or Low for 6 hours, stirring occasionally.
Note: My dog food was ready in 3½ hours on High. Let cool completely before serving. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator or freeze for later use.
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AUGUST 2026
A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS
AUGUST 2ND
Summer Concert Series With Making Waves
Baker Park Bandshell | 7:00 PM
Attendees can enjoy an open-air performance by the popular high-energy ensemble, Making Waves. The professional musicians will showcase a vibrant catalog spanning multiple decades of popular music hits, bringing an energetic atmosphere to the community park. VisitFrederick.org
AUGUST 7TH
Educational Program Showcasing Maryland Mammals
Fountain Rock Park & Nature Center | 10:00 AM
This interactive, family-friendly educational presentation focuses on the diverse wildlife species native to the state. Participants will learn about regional ecology, local habitats and animal behaviors through engaging displays and informative demonstrations guided by knowledgeable park naturalists. VisitFrederick.org
AUGUST 7TH
Shakespeare Youth Production Of Twelfth Night
Hodson Outdoor Theater | 7:30 PM
Experience a fast-paced theatrical production of Shakespeare’s classic comedy performed entirely by a talented group of rising teen actors. The outdoor staging features a whirlwind tale where a shipwreck sparks a chaotic and humorous battle for love. VisitFrederick.org
AUGUST 8TH
Barnyard Band And Booze Evening Festival
Green Meadows Petting Farm | 6:00 PM
Adults can enjoy a unique evening farm experience featuring live music and local drinks. This pet-friendly and animal-centric venue lets attendees mingle with friendly farm animals while exploring the outdoor pastures. A portion of the proceeds from the evening's local vendors goes toward supporting regional agricultural conservation and animal care initiatives. GreenMeadowsEvents.com
AUGUST 9TH
Summer Concert Series With Radio King Orchestra
Baker Park Bandshell | 7:00 PM
This live outdoor musical performance highlights the elegant, high-energy big band sounds of the Radio King Orchestra. Music lovers can relax on the lawn while listening to classic swing and jazz melodies delivered by talented professional artists. VisitFrederick.org
AUGUST 15TH
Living History Weekend In The Park
Fountain Rock Park & Nature Center | 10:00 AM
History comes alive through a series of immersive historical demonstrations and interactive exhibits. Costumed interpreters will portray past eras, showcasing traditional crafts, historical tools and the daily lifestyles of individuals from earlier centuries in Maryland. VisitFrederick.org
When Dan first walked into The X in Frederick, everyday movement felt harder and life felt smaller. With coaches who tailored training to his goals, he built strength safely, regained mobility and unlocked the energy to hike 500 miles, travel, garden, build and stay active with ease.
Dan’s story isn’t about age—it’s about momentum. If you want to move well, feel capable and age boldly, your starting point is here.
Leading with Heart
President & CEO of Frederick Health Dr. Cheryl Cioffi on Putting Compassion in Action to Serve Local Families and Inspire Future Leaders
ARTICLE BY DR. CHERYL CIOFFI
As CEO of Frederick Health, what’s the most rewarding part of serving local families in our community?
I grew up in Frederick County, so this work is deeply personal to me. The most rewarding part is hearing stories from patients and families who have received excellent care. Being part of an organization that cares for my own community is a privilege and responsibility I never take for granted.
When you were a child, did you ever imagine leading a hospital one day? What advice would you give young girls who dream of becoming leaders?
As a child I had no idea what I wanted to do, besides owning an ice cream truck (happy music!). I worked hard for 7 years in the restaurant business paying my way through college and nursing school, facing some setbacks along the way. My advice to young girls is to believe in yourself, work hard, find mentors and thoughtfully reflect on every piece of advice you receive along the way.
Outside of work, what does family time look like for you? Do you have any favorite traditions, hobbies or pets that help you recharge?
Family time for us is being outdoors and enjoying time together. Our rescue dogs have always been a big part of that, especially on trips to the beach, and we also have an outdoor cat. We recently lost one of our precious dogs after 13 years, so those memories mean even more. Being with family is what helps me recharge.
The Kids & Pets Edition is all about compassion and connection. How do kindness and empathy play a role in both healthcare and leadership?
At Frederick Health, kindness and empathy are at the heart of everything we do. In healthcare, people may not always remember every detail of their treatment, but they will remember how you made them feel. The same is true in leadership. Leading with compassion means listening and creating an environment where people feel valued and understood. Whether we’re caring for patients, families, team members or even our pets at home, empathy builds trust and true connection.
FrederickHealth.org
