Meet the GPEC team: Milestone anniversaries part III
Published: 07/24/2019
Updated: 10/08/2019
“Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much.” – Helen Keller
At GPEC, we’re passionate about what we do and who we work with. It’s the people behind our mission that work tirelessly each day to build our region’s identity, recruit businesses, and keep the lights on. Join us in celebrating members of our team who have reached milestone anniversaries with the organization.
Nicole Buratovich, Director, Investor Strategy & Engagement (1 year)
What’s your hidden talent?
I can speak pig Latin incredibly fast and fluently!
What’s your spirit animal?
I would have to say a horse – they are incredibly majestic, wise and strong.
What’s your favorite emoji?
On weekends I ___________?
…love to have leisurely mornings with my cold brew lattes and cook all day!
My dream car is______________.
In high school, I used to really want a pink Hummer (before they became commercialized and they released the H3). Now that I’m fortunately out of that phase, I want something that is efficient, and zippy, so maybe a Mini Cooper or a Tesla…?
What’s your life theme song?
“Begin to Hope” by Regina Spektor
What inspires you?
Smart, strong women inspire me. I’m also inspired by traveling to new and culturally different places as it is a reminder that there are endless opportunities on how to live.
Kathleen Lee, SVP, Regional Initiative (2 years)
What’s your hidden talent?
Cooking. I am really good at following recipes.
What’s your spirit animal?
Rabbit
What’s your favorite emoji?
On weekends I ___________?
…make a big breakfast
My dream car is______________.
Electric, autonomous vehicle (because I am a terrible driver)
What’s your life theme song?
“We are the Champions,” by Queen
What inspires you?
People fighting for justice and equality
Anna Maldonado, Executive Assistant to the President & CEO (1 year)
What’s your spirit animal?
Maximus (my dog)
What’s your favorite emoji?
On weekends I ___________?
…can be found practicing yoga, hiking new trails, exploring farmers markets and local shops, trying new restaurants, or venturing off for a weekend getaway.
My dream car is______________.
A car that comes with a driver!
What’s your life theme song?
“Crystal Blue Persuasion” by Tommy James and the Shondells
What inspires you?
Nature’s complex beauty and simple wonder of existence.
Brad Smidt, SVP, Business Development (19 years)
What’s your hidden talent?
I can balance the golf ball on the tee in the globe full of water.
What’s your spirit animal?
The Wildcat!
On weekends I ___________?
…coach soccer, play golf and clean up after my daughters…haha
My dream car is______________.
Electric 4×4 Pickup with over 500-mile battery range
What’s your life theme song?
“We are the Champions” by Queen
What inspires you?
My daughters
Bryan Smith, Director, Business Development (4 years)
What’s your hidden talent?
I can name all 50 state capitals
What’s your spirit animal?
Jack Donaghy
What’s your favorite emoji?
On weekends I ___________?
…like to go fishing
My dream car is______________.
1965 Jaguar E Type
What’s your life theme song?
“Winner” by Cheeseburger
What inspires you?
Science Fiction. Narratives help me imagine the impacts of technology on society and our economy.
Kristen Stephenson, VP, Research (1 year)
What’s your hidden talent?
Knitting
What’s your spirit animal?
Labrador
What’s your favorite emoji?
On weekends I ___________?
hang out with family and go to my son’s soccer games
My dream car is______________.
My Honda Pilot
What’s your life theme song?
“High Hopes” by Panic! At the Disco
What inspires you?
My kids