How long have you served on the BA board of directors?

I started my first term in February 2017.

What’s new in homebrewing and what’s next on the horizon?

Over the next few years, I think we’ll see much more variety in what people are homebrewing. While hops and IPAs will still be strong, I also see a culinary focus coming to the forefront as more homebrewers are experimenting with culinary ingredients and brewing beers with an eye toward how they can pair that beer with food. We are also seeing a lot more collaborations as pro brewers team up with homebrewers for taproom small batches.

What’s it like to serve on the board?

It’s a combination of humbling and energizing. There are so many great brewers and owners on the board’people with a wealth of knowledge and experience well beyond mine. The energy of the board is exceptional, and everyone is open to listening to everyone else to make sure that what we do is in the best interest of craft breweries.

What challenges and satisfactions have you met during your board service?

As a new member, my main challenge was to figure out how I could best contribute to the board. I expected it to take a few meetings, but I guess I jumped in with both feet as I’m already on two committees! I’ve found that my work background will be helpful in providing a skill set that can help the board. Plus, I have the opportunity to ensure that some of the work we are doing as part of the American Homebrewers Association is aligned with the work of the BA.

What do you like to do in your spare time?

I’m retired from my day job, so I get to do the things I love’especially hiking. My husband and I make yearly treks to Mount LeConte in the Smoky Mountains. We’ve also been doing a lot of beer travel in the U.S. and around the world. We have two cats (Boris and Natasha), and I also spend time volunteering at a no kill cat shelter.