Sponsored by Dr. Brooke Jacobs, PsyD Licensed Clinical Psychologist, Delve, LLC & Merryman House Domestic Crisis Center Center Education: Doctor of Psychology (PsyD) - Clinical Psychology Professional, community, and civic organizations: • Kentucky Psychological Association Member • American Psychological Association Member Biggest challenge in your professional career: Sadly my biggest challenge in my career is likely one that several others in my field face as well: stigma. While it is disheartening to hear individuals in everyday comments, social media posts, and social supports spread falsehoods about mental health, mental illness, and mental health treatment/resources, I feel a different pain when I sit across from a patient who has engrained these falsehoods as fact and truth in his/her life. These individuals believe they are not worthy of a happy and healthy life and may not even be of the opinion that such a thing even exists. When I initially encountered these types of barriers, I was uncertain how to move forward in my career. As a young clinician, still in training, I consulted those around me. Specifically, I had the pleasure of having a consistent platform for growth within my clinical supervision provided by Dr. Emily Brame Thomas, who worked with me throughout my entire master level licensure, internship, and postdoctoral placements. She allowed me the space to determine how I could address these challenges with my training. It is at this point that I saw the need for systemic change and growth and education for our society and local community. I am lucky that my work offers me the ability to zoom out from individualized care and work within systems to start to identify just how these policies, cultures, mis- and disinformation spreading habits can change and how many lives can be positively impacted with these adjustments. Elena Blevins Executive Director, Kentucky Lake Convention & Visitors Bureau Education: Bachelors of Science in Organizational Communication from Murray State University; Masters of Science in HR Management from Mid-Continent University Professional, community, and civic organizations: • Kentucky Lake Economic Development Secretary • Marshall County Industrial Development Authority Secretary/Treasurer • The Benton Partnership Chairperson • Calvert Area Development Association • Lakes Region Coalition Vice Chair • Kentucky’s Western Waterlands Regional Committee Advertising Chair Biggest challenge in your professional career: Complacency... I have been working in tourism for over 10 years and have worked my way up to the position I have now as Executive Director. There was a time though in my previous position as Marketing Director that I felt very unsure of my purpose within the organization. It was incredibly hard not to become complacent without very much direction. I had to figure out how to become useful. As a result, I branched out and decided to become more involved within our local community. It ended up being a great step in the right direction because it helped bridge the gap between what our local community thought about tourism. We finally had a presence and people started to see what a great community partner we could be! I have maintained several of those relationships and organizations to this day. Career achievement you are most proud of: If I am being honest, I believe my most proud moment is still ahead of me! Elisha Winslow REALTOR & Land Specialist, Living the Dream Outdoor Properties Hobbies/Hidden Talents: Balancing kids, work, and a late 30’s career change after a divorce haha! Volunteer for the Paducah City Schools Football programs, board member for the Paducah Football Association, and love family road trips and traveling! Professional, community, and civic organizations: • Paducah Football Association Board Director and Secretary • Former Site-Based Member for Paducah Public Schools Biggest challenge in your professional career: In my late 30’s I decided to make a career change. As a divorced mom of four, it wasn’t easy. I balanced family, building my business, the kids virtual learning, all while still trying to maintain a home and keep the lights on. When people learned of my change, I was met with a lot of “hmm well, good luck” (Insert doubtful tone here!). I also recently began working as the HR Coordinator for Harrahs Casino. So, I balance 2 careers! Career achievement you are most proud of: Obtaining my KY Real Estate license, being a member of the National Association of Realtors, and the Kentucky Realtors. Best piece of business advice: Keep going. And, Why not me? These points kept me going when I didn’t think I’d pass my exams, or when people around me didn’t support me, or when I was running on four hours of sleep. But here I am! At the end of the day, I just wanted to make my kids proud. Not only in my career but as a woman and as their mom. So, if anyone out there wants to quit, keep going! They’re watching. INTHEVUE.COM | PROMOTING EVENTS THAT MAKE A DIFFERENCE | SEPTEMBER 2022 13
