Leading with Compassion and Focusing on Joy: An Interview with Kelsey Rice
Meet kelsey rice, Corporate & Events Manager for Make-A-Wish Wisconsin
Community leader and philanthropic event aficionado Kelsey Rice embodies the mission of Make A Wish Wisconsin: leading with compassion, sincerity, and value-centric thinking. Her dedication to the organization has resulted in the resounding (and repeated!) success of MAW’s flagship philanthropic events, leading to granting of hundreds of wishes by the MAW team. Kelsey’s extensive experience in community engagement is truly inspiring and shows us the value of constituent-first decision-making.
In this Community Leader Interview, Kelsey shares with us her best advice for young professionals and encourages us to find new opportunities for growth and happiness.
What is the best professional advice you have received?
You don’t have to be good at everything! Find what you’re good at and hone in on those skills.
When I was young I felt like a failure if I wasn’t good at math, or science. But, in the real world your school grades don’t matter. Find something you love, find something you’re good at, and make a career of it. Then, build a team around to you help fill in the gaps of the areas you’re not as strong in.
What is the best advice you could give your younger self upon beginning your career?
Whenever you can, say yes to opportunities big and small.
It is a great way to meet people, try new things, and create long-lasting and meaningful relationships in the community.
How can young professionals excel in the workplace?
Helping your colleagues and network when they need it will set you apart – even if it isn’t your job to do so.
I have found when you take small steps to help others, they’re ready and willing to do the same for you – even when it is a bigger ask. The small details often have very lasting impressions on others. Showing up for others will take you far!
What are your best tips for those that are new to networking?
Don’t be afraid to step outside your comfort zone.
Networking events can frequently be awkward to attend, especially by yourself. But, show up and introduce yourself to people and remember everyone is in the same boat!
A great way to network is to volunteer for a cause you care about. I’m lucky enough to help run the Make-A-Wish Emerging Leaders group, and it has proven to be an amazing networking opportunity for myself and others. When you can come together for a cause you care about, it is such an easy first step! The rest happens really naturally.
What do you wish the generations ahead of you, and behind you, knew?
I hope that women that are coming up know that you don’t have to do it all.
For a long time there was this focus on the grind, side-hustles, and “girl bossing.” If that is what you want, then AMAZING. However, I hope people know they don’t have to be working their butt off 24/7 in order to be happy. Find the things that bring you joy and focus on them.
and finally, What do you love about Milwaukee?
I love the concept of “small-waukee.” I’m so lucky to have a great team at Make-A-Wish and no matter what events I’m at, someone knows one of my amazing colleagues. It makes networking so much easier when you have that “in.” Also, love the food scene here. I’m a bit of a foodie and love trying new restaurants, there is never a shortage of options!
Find Kelsey on LinkedIn.
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