I share my home here in Monrovia with my partner, Tom, my 14-year-old son Stefin, our four-legged family Mable and Cleo the cats, and Fred and Malee the dogs. We moved to Monrovia in 2016 to work and be closer to our families. From the moment we arrived, we knew that we were in a fantastic place that offers so much. I love exploring and walking all over looking at the great houses, businesses, and trees!
I have worked with non-profits for most of my career and am very dedicated to helping them build programming and strategic initiatives that will help vulnerable populations. I am very connected to animal welfare and sheltering groups specifically, as I have worked in the space for many years. My Monrovia business, JBankConsulting, allows me to work with organizations all over the country, which is exciting, but does require lots of travel, which can be tiring.
It’s in my DNA to be an active member of the community, so we quickly searched for places where we could make a difference. I believe strongly in giving back to the community and am so impressed with how the City of Monrovia supports those in need. Today, I am a Commissioner with the Community Services Commission, a board member of the Monrovia Parks, Wilderness & Recreation Foundation, a board member of the Jewish Federation of the San Gabriel and Pomona Valleys, a “White Suiter” for the Tournament of Roses, a Rotarian, a MAP leader and an active member of the MHS PTA. I also support my son’s efforts, which include the Scouts, Centre Stage Inc., the MHS track and cross country teams, the MHS Theatre Conservatory, and more. I encourage you all to find a place/cause that you are passionate about and to get involved.
Q: Please tell us a little bit about your origin story. Share a little about your childhood and your family.
I grew up in Brooklyn, New York, where my mother, brother and I lived in a small apartment. On the weekends, I would go to my dad’s house in Greenwhich, Connecticut, where I always felt like a princess. While my parents were not together, they always collaborated to make sure that we all felt like a family and were there for each other. As you can imagine, our family always included a variety of dogs and cats, too. You learn how to be direct, resilent and open to everyone growing up in New York. I wouldn’t have had it any other way. The only thing I wish is that I was taught how to cook!
Q: Please tell us about your current, past, or future career. What do you love most about what you do?
I just hit my 35-year working for non-profit and municipal entities, specializing mostly in animal and child welfare. I am currently the principle of JBankConsulting, where I work with clients to help them be the best they can be. There is nothing better than mentoring a passionate individual and seeing how their energy gets translated into programs and organizational change, which then trickles down to helping the intended audience.
Q: What are a couple of your favorite restaurants in our community?
I love that we have a foodie downtown in Monrovia. I am trying to see if I can go to each place at least once. I am a vegetarian, and most places have at least one option for me, which has been great. So far, I think my favorite is the Diplomat. I just love the cauliflower and the vegetable soup.
Q: How long have you lived or worked in our community? Tell us about your favorite memory or experience living in Monrovia.
We moved to Monrovia in 2016 as a fluke. The rental market was tough, and we couldn’t find a place that would take our four-legged family members. It was very frustrating. We finally connected with a pet lover in Monrovia and took the place sight unseen. We did not know about Monrovia, so we crossed our fingers that we did the right thing. We have never looked back, as the community is perfect in every way. We finally bought a house during the pandemic and cannot be happier.
Q: None of us are able to achieve success without some help along the way. Is there a particular person you’ve met here in our community who helped you get to where you are or inspired you?
I have to say that my stepmother was by far the biggest influence in my life. She taught me to appreciate animals and nature. She taught me how to go for what I wanted. She taught me kindness, love, and how to be a present parent. I wouldn’t be who I am without her. While she doesn’t live in Monrovia, she is always in my heart, so I say she is an honorary Monrovian.
Q: If you could travel anywhere in the world right now, where would it be and why?
Africa. I want to see the animals in their natural habitat and help to make sure they don’t go extinct.
Q: What is one of your favorite movies of all time? Do you have a favorite TV show or shows?
I love movies and have so many favorites, but right now I have been watching re-runs of Sex and the City. It reminds me of my friends and I growing up in NYC. I also love musicals and am always singing show tunes, although I can’t really sing. I love watching my son and his friends perform at the local children’s theatre at Centre Stage, Inc.
Q: What advice would you give to people? Do you have a Life Lesson quote?
Be open to change. Change can lead to something exciting and magical. The worst that can happen is that the change doesn’t work out and then you change again.
Q: What is something on your bucket list?
I really want to travel more. Also, I would love to meet Barry Manilow, no judgement here please, to shake his hand, as his songs were really impactful during my youth. I feel like I have a sixth degree of separation with him as I almost met him a bunch of times. Anyone know him so that you can help make it happen? Finally, I would like to go back to school to get my Ph.D. I got a Masters during the pandemic and realized that it’s never too late to learn. I will probably consider it when my son graduates college in seven or so years from now, as two college bills are a bit rough at the same time.
Q: What is your go to band when you can’t decide what music to listen to?
70s and 80s soft rock and jazz. Yep, I like elevator music. Very soothing. Also love show tunes.
Q: What current or former local business makes you the most nostalgic about our community?
Not a business, but Monrovia Canyon Park gives me all of the feels.
Q: If you could choose anyone that is alive today and not a relative, with whom would you love to have lunch? Why? And where locally would y’all meet for this lunch?
It would have to be Jane Goodall. She has made such an impact in the world when it has come to the environment and animals. We would have a picnic in the park and I would pick her brain on what can I do to help continue her legacy.
Q: What is your favorite thing about Monrovia or something unique about our community that you like?
So many things! I love the outdoor space. I love our commitment to gathering people at events. I love the diversity and the amazing people. I love that you always meet someone you know in the supermarket. I love how much there is to do. I love the bears and other wildlife that share our space. I can’t say enough.
Q: Sometimes our mistakes can be our greatest teachers. Can you share a story about the funniest mistake you’ve ever made?
So many mistakes, I can’t keep track. No point in spending time worrying. What is most important is to laugh and learn from them.
Q: Even for friends or family, what is something interesting that most people don’t know about you?
I won an Emmy award. It’s an interesting story.
Q: What is the most beautiful place you have ever been?
Depends on where I am. I think NY, London, Paris, etc. are all beautiful because of their rich histories. I think Hilton Head, South Carolina and Montauk are beautiful because of the beaches. I think Costa Rica is beautiful because of the rainforest. I try to see beauty everywhere.
Q: What do you consider your greatest achievement?
Becoming a mom and learning how to prioritize family first.
Q: What would you rate a 10 out of 10?
A large bowl of pasta with marinara sauce.
Q: Who inspires you to be better?
My son, for sure. I am so proud of him so far and cannot wait to see what’s next. He teaches me so much about patience, enthusiasm, commitment and responsibility.
Q: If you could inspire a movement that would bring the most amount of good to the greatest amount of people, what would that be?
There are so many animals in animal shelters that need great families. These are great animals that got caught up in a breakdown of the human animal bond. If everyone could adopt just one, it would go a long way to saving animals lives and strengthening families, as a home is best with a pet in it.
Q: Finally, what three character traits come to mind when you think of your success in life?
Constantly learning, making family and friends a priority, and giving back to make the community better.
