President and CEO, Community Health Endowment; and
Winner, Excellence in
Nonprofit Inspire Award in 2022
She has been part of many transformative projects and says she loves Lincoln’s passion for addressing tough problems with creative solutions and compassionate resolve. Lori’s goal has always been that CHE will make Lincoln better and healthier for all who live here.
Who has inspired you?I am fortunate to know many inspiring people! Personally, I was inspired by my parents. My mom and dad were raised during the depression, and my mom underwent ruthless treatments as a two-time breast cancer survivor. Despite those challenges, they lived life to the fullest, giving back to their community in impactful ways. Professionally, I am inspired by the work of Lincoln’s nonprofits, both by the leaders and those being served. Putting hands and hearts into action is a high and noble calling.
People are also reading…
What book or podcast is currently inspiring you?I recently re-read “I Am a Man: Chief Standing Bear’s Journey for Justice.” I rarely read a book more than once, but it was an opportunity to be reminded of the valuable lessons to be found in our history. Everyone, and certainly every Nebraskan, should know this story.
The Inspire Women’s Leadership platform launched Inspire Girls. What advice would you give them?I would encourage every girl to study the history of women, including the stories of women in her own family. The opportunities that girls have today were cultivated by women they may never have the chance to meet. Having a deep appreciation for the lessons of the past will prepare every girl for the future.
How can we better inspire, include and invest in others in our community?When I speak to groups, I often encourage people to “be a local.” In other words, move out of your comfort zone and get to know Lincoln. There are well-known landmarks and events in our city, but there are also local restaurants and businesses, neighborhoods where you do not live and cultural/ethnic events that you have never experienced. Explore Lincoln, the people, art, food and traditions. The more you know about Lincoln, the more you will love it and be inspired to give back.
What does leadership mean to you?
Leadership is never static. Sometimes leadership is large, offering a loud voice of reason or dissent. Sometimes leadership is quiet, gently nudging people into action. A mature leader knows when, how and why leadership is needed, with a goal to “produce more leaders, not more followers.”
What is your favorite inspirational quote or motto?For several decades, I have had a small plaque on my counter that reads “I am still learning.” It is a quote attributed to Michaelangelo when, at age 87, he was working on St. Peter’s Basilica. It reminds me that curiosity should never end.
How would you describe a great day?Having morning coffee with my husband, receiving texts or visits from my children, moving ideas into action at work and going on a long walk on the wooded Jamaica Trail on a beautiful 70-degree day.
What’s the best advice you’ve ever received, and who gave it to you?One of my favorite songs is “Keep Me in the Moment.” There is a line, “All I got is one shot, one try. One go-around in this beautiful life” and, as a person of faith, it reminds me that we can miss what life has to offer if we are not intentional about our limited time. This becomes increasingly true as I grow older!