United States Navy Veteran,
Founder of The Pink Berets, and Advocate
Photography by David Teran
How has your military career prepared you for your current job?
My Navy service fundamentally shaped my approach to leadership and advocacy in ways that directly translate to my roles as Founder of The Pink Berets. The military taught me to operate under pressure, make decisive decisions with limited information, and maintain unwavering focus on mission-critical objectives.
In the Navy, I learned that true leadership isn’t about commanding from the top—it’s about empowering your team and serving those around you. This philosophy drives how I lead The Pink Berets, where we empower women veterans and military sexual trauma survivors through advocacy, trauma-informed care, and holistic wellness. Every day, I draw on military precision and strategic thinking to navigate the complexities of nonprofit leadership, from developing peer support networks to building partnerships that create meaningful change.
The military also instilled in me an unshakeable commitment to service before self. This mindset is the foundation of The Pink Berets’ mission: supporting those who’ve served while addressing the critical issues of PTSD, military sexual trauma, and combat stress. We’re not just running programs; we’re creating lifelines that prevent depression, homelessness, unemployment, and suicide among women veterans—a mission that extends far beyond organizational goals.
What advice do you have for other women who are transitioning out of the military into the civilian workforce?
First, recognize that your military experience is not just relevant—it’s invaluable. The discipline, leadership skills, and ability to perform under pressure that you’ve developed are exactly what the civilian workforce needs. Don’t downplay your service; leverage it as your competitive advantage.
Second, find your tribe. The transition can feel isolating, but you’re not alone. Connect with organizations like The Pink Berets, which I founded specifically to empower women veterans and military sexual trauma survivors. Building a network of women who understand your journey provides both professional opportunities and emotional support through mentorship and trauma-informed care.
Third, don’t be afraid to take calculated risks. My decision to launch The Pink Berets required stepping into unfamiliar territory, but my military training taught me to assess risks strategically and execute with confidence. Your service has prepared you to handle uncertainty better than most.
Finally, use your voice. As women veterans, we bring unique perspectives that can drive meaningful change. Whether you’re entering corporate America, starting your own organization, or pursuing advocacy work, your experiences matter, and your voice deserves to be heard—especially when it comes to addressing the challenges we face as women who’ve served.
Who or what has helped you the most in your career?
The women veterans I serve through The Pink Berets have been my greatest source of strength and inspiration. Their resilience in the face of trauma, their determination to rebuild their lives, and their willingness to support each other have taught me that true success isn’t measured by individual achievement—it’s measured by the lives you impact and the healing you facilitate.
My military sisters, both those still serving and those who’ve transitioned, continue to challenge me to be better. They’ve shown me that vulnerability is not weakness; it’s the foundation of authentic leadership and healing. When I received recognition like the Points of Light Award and L’Oreal Paris Women of Worth Honoree, it wasn’t just personal validation—it was acknowledgment of our collective mission to create change and support survivors.
The mentors who believed in my vision for The Pink Berets, even when addressing military sexual trauma seemed like an insurmountable challenge, have been instrumental. They taught me that being a visionary leader means seeing possibilities others can’t and having the courage to pursue them relentlessly, especially when it comes to protecting and empowering those who’ve served.
Any additional thoughts or questions you’d like to add?
I want other women veterans to know that your service doesn’t end when you take off the uniform. Whether you’re building nonprofit organizations, leading corporate teams, or advocating for policy change, you’re still serving—just in a different capacity.
Through The Pink Berets, we’re proving that organizations built on the principle of service can create both impact and healing. Our peer support networks and trauma-informed care aren’t just about addressing individual needs; they’re about empowering women veterans to move through their healing journey with confidence and community support.
To every woman veteran reading this: Your story matters. Your voice matters. Your leadership matters. The world needs what you have to offer—so step forward with the same courage that led you to serve our country and make your mark on the civilian world. Remember that seeking support isn’t weakness; it’s strength, and organizations like The Pink Berets are here to walk alongside you in that journey.
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