Do you have any superstitions?
Karma, good and bad, is dependable. It proves itself over and over again.
What did you want to be when you grew up?
As a child, I wanted to be a flight attendant.
What do you love to do outside of work?
Any time I can spend with my family is treasured. I particularly enjoy taking photographs of my sons’ football games or of the family surfing. To be on the field, in the thick of the action, and to be so proud of both of my sons’ athletic abilities is sheer joy. My daughter and I enjoy our walks on the beach, picking up seashells and just talking.
Are you a high-maintenance person?
I have high expectations of myself and for those who choose to work with me. I’m fair to others, however, by providing full disclosure before they accept the challenge.
How did you meet your spouse?
Tomas Kaselionis and I recently celebrated our fourth wedding anniversary. We’ve known each other for eight years, meeting originally when he was my son Tino’s football coach. Tino, who was 12 back then, is now a sophomore at Willamette University in Oregon. Life is surprising that way.
Share a funny childhood moment.
When I was about 10 years old, my father took me skiing at Mammoth Mountain. It was one of my first times on skis, and I was pretty wobbly. As we were traversing down the mountain, I began to pick up too much speed. I lost control and ran into the tip of a pine tree—which stopped me, but ripped the backside of my ski pants. I was completely mortified. I took off my skis and walked down the rest of the mountain.
Do you believe in miracles?
I’m constantly amazed at the miracles that individuals, groups and communities perform on a daily basis.
If you could go back in time, what year would you visit?
My teenage years in the late 1970s, when summers were filled with Bill Graham Presents “Day on the Green” rock concerts at Oakland Coliseum.
If you could do any job in the world for one day, what would you choose?
I’d like to be a Blue Angel pilot. The skill, courage and precision of their formation flying is breathtaking.
If you could enact one law that doesn’t exist, what would it be?
I’d instititute tougher laws on child abuse and rape offenders.
What skill would you like to learn in the next year?
I’d like to be more proficient with technology.
Have you had an experience that completely changed your life?
Beating cancer: It will be five years this October, and all looks good. I underwent six weeks of five-day-per-week radiation and two weeks of nearly 24/7 chemo. The experience exposed me to some of the most selfless, kind and wonderful medical providers, who work with patients to whom they knowingly must cause horrific pain, but who are able to keep focused on the outcome. Neighbors, family and community were also there to support me during a very difficult and black time in my life.
What do you think heaven is like?
We’re living it.
