A committed philanthropist from an early age, Jodi Tyson knew she was destined to follow a path of public leadership to help improve health and safety for women, children and the elderly. She now contributes her energy toward ensuring a healthier, wealthier and more equitable future for all members of our community.
Why this career? As a college student, I most enjoyed internships and interactions with agencies that worked behind the scenes. They enacted policies and contributed to research that influenced informing best practices, as opposed to agencies that focused on direct services. Public health provided the exact mix of macro-planning, policy and services that I craved to do in my career.
Proudest career achievements? To have passed important pieces of legislation that increase access to better nutrition among children, adults and seniors … to be a founder of programs and organizations that have made a lasting and sustainable impact in the community ... to have shared my professional expertise and love for this field as a contract professor at UNLV, as well as mentoring many young professionals.
Best advice received? “Sometimes it’s better to ask for forgiveness rather than for permission.” Just make sure that it is in alignment with the organization’s mission and that it’s a cause you’re ready to sacrifice for until others can catch up to your reasoning and action.
Advice to young women entering the workforce? If you want to build a relationship with someone, ask them to teach you something.
Favorite thing about living in Southern Nevada? There just isn’t anywhere that competes with the economic opportunity, outdoor lifestyle, community design, intentional planning, access to elected leaders, innovation and sense of community that is Southern Nevada.
Goals for next 5-10 years? In 2015, I set a goal to run for office in the decade of 2020. I am on pace with the learning and listening benchmarks I have set for myself to prepare for such an audacious endeavor.