What do you do for the Visitors Center?

I am the person that is most seen in the public eye for the Center. I work on educating the community about tourism by giving presentations and getting involved in different groups and organizations. I oversee the daily operations of the Center and work to grow the Center and our operations.

What brought you to the Ottawa area originally? How long have you lived here?

I am originally from Peru, a town about 15 miles from here. I moved to the Chicago suburbs for college, where I met my husband. When my husband and I decided to start a family, we thought this area would be best suited to raise our family. We moved back to the area approximately 5 years ago.

What is your favorite thing about our community?

My favorite thing about Ottawa is the rich history. It is amazing to learn about the unique individuals that are apart of the Ottawa story -- for instance, Abraham Lincoln, General W.H.L. Wallace, Judge John D. Caton and William Reddick. I do have to say, though, out of all these colorful characters, the W.H.L. Wallace story is my favorite.

What famous OTTAWA person would you like to meet?

The famous Ottawa person I would like to meet is General W.H.L. Wallace. I admire his dedication to our country and the undying love he had for his family. Ottawa is fortunate to be able to share this wonderful story!

What do you enjoy most about working at the Visitors Center?

I enjoy the people. It is so interesting every day to meet visitors from all over the country or the world and learn of their unique stories. Whether it’s someone from Ottawa, Canada, who wants to see another Ottawa, or someone from the Chicagoland area that wants to escape for a weekend, it is so interesting to talk to people and help them Experience Ottawa in a way that suits their interests!