Leadership Spotlight: Dee Perkins, Associate Director for Business and Finance

What advice would you give to someone aspiring to a managerial role?

Know your limitations. Maintain a positive attitude while being genuine and honest. Take the time to learn about the team and help them to learn about each other to build respect and empathy. 

How do you measure success in your position?

Success is a blend of achieving goals, creating positive experiences, fostering growth, and maintaining well-being for the whole team.

How do you build and maintain relationships with stakeholders and partners?

Being kind, honest, and patient. It’s about taking the time to listen and empathize with others. Meetings are not the only opportunities for discussions—hallway conversations and stopping by to see them in their own space. Asking, how can I help?

How do you maintain a work-life balance?

I am not sure if there is such a thing. I feel like there are days when I am doing great at work, but I could have done better at home and vice versa. I pray it all balances out in the long run, but I do try to be fully present in either setting.