Jill Goetz

Jill A. (LaMont) Goetz has courage, strength and compassion, say her nominators. It’s plain to see through her work and through the words of people who interact with her every day. Even her daughter describes her as “loving,” although her son used the word “goofy.”

Age: 38 Position: Marketing/PR Director Bismarck Cancer Center

Family: Daughter Courtney (14); son Connor (10)

Hobbies: Watching my children in their various activities, community volunteering

Community Involvement: Mandan School Board Member, Past President Mandan Kiwanis, former member of BUSY in Mandan.

Career Path: I have been in Marketing and Sales for 12 years. I was born and raised in Mandan and am a graduate of Mandan High School and North Dakota State University and Interstate Business College, both in Fargo. I’m also past president of the Mandan Kiwanis Club and a member of the Mandan School Board.

Mentors: I have been fortunate in my life to have family members who have been successful in political aspects, in achieving their PhD’s, running businesses, and raising their families, who have not only showed me the correct paths to take, but also helped to guide me along the way. My parents and core family members have been there to help in way they can, which gives me the drive to want to succeed.

Briefly, tell us about yourself: I was struggling with this question and how to answer as I find it difficult to talk about myself, I thought about how I would hope others see me and this is what I came up with… Caring, compassionate, giving, intelligent, determined, and witty. I then read the question to my kids and asked for their comments and my daughter said, “loving” and my son said “goofy” …Perfect!

What motivates you? In my personal life, my children motivate me to succeed and show them all the wonderful opportunities out there available for them. In my professional life, cancer patients, survivors and their families motivate me everyday to make sure I do my very best to support them through their journey.

What’s the biggest risk you’ve ever taken? A risk, a challenge, and a journey that took me down roads I couldn’t have imagined, was surviving cancer. When one is diagnosed with a disease that could take everything away from you and you away from everyone you love put everything in the right perspective. This was a battle I was determined to win and win big I did! It has brought me to places I could not have imagined mentally, physically and professionally and I have met amazing people who I would have never had the chance to meet.

Anything you’re particularly proud of? Raising my children on my own while pursuing my career. I am so proud of both them, I believe I am on the right path and have taught them to become strong, independent, caring, community minded young adults.

What advice would you offer other young professionals? “The most effective way to do it, is to do it.” ~ Amelia Earhart. This is one of the quotes I look at everyday from a woman who was never afraid to take that chance. Set your goals, reach for your dreams and take those chances…

What are you thankful for? Having a job that I truly love to come to everyday, I know that I am making a difference in people’s lives and the more I can give back to our community the happier I am. Of course, my two children and family are my treasures in my life that I am the most thankful for!

What do you see yourself doing in 10 years? Living my life to fullest and making a difference in the lives of others. I live my life one day at a time and can’t wait to see what paths lay ahead for me and where they may take me. There is quote that I find to be so true to my life and my future… “There can be no happiness if the things we believe in are different from the things we do” Madeline Stark.