Renee Staley

Education: Associate's Degree in Process Technology from the University of Alaska Fairbanks, Certificate in Human Services Technology from UAF, Bachelor's Degree in Psychology from UAF, Masters of Business Administration from the University Phoenix, Arizona, Project Management Preparation from the University of Alaska Anchorage

Community work: University of Alaska Fairbanks' School of Management, Chamber of Commerce's Military Affairs Committee, Golden Heart Rotary of Fairbanks, Golden Valley Electric Association, Fairbanks North Star Borough School District, Habitat for Humanity, Air Force Association, Army Association, Eielson Air Force Base

Family: Spouse William, parents Dolores and William Powell, brother Brian, and dog Lucky, a Lahsapoo

Hometown: Fairbanks

Favorite lunch spot? Gallos

Best stress reliever? Relaxing with friends

Your most memorable experience that could only have happened in Alaska. Going to Chena Hot Springs for New Years Eve with William and three other couples. He showed up in shorts. It was 57 below.

What is the strangest thing you've ever seen in Alaska? My first experience at Birchwood Homes was the ice house. A woman turned on all the faucets in her home at 45 below and opened the windows. The whole home turned into an ice skating rink. This helped me see the construction side of what I do and what the cold can truly do to a home.

Name the person you most respect and why. My boss Richard W. Fischer. Dick's mother Helen, signed our state Constitution and was a leader for all Alaska women. Dick is one of the hardest working people I have ever met. He inspires me to challenge myself and continue to learn and grow. He is always there to listen and to guide and I appreciate all that he has done for me, and is a model of inspiration.

Famous quote to live by: "Just Do It!" — Nike

How did you make your first dollar? I am proud to say I was 14 years old and wanted a job; I got one at Taco Bell. I loved that job, good hours 15 per week, I learned customer service, cash handling and accuracy.

What did your pet or child teach you about business? To always be an active listener. Even when they can't speak to you, in their doggie way.

Favorite superhero? Wonder Woman. Great style, great attitude, and always a winner.

What was your biggest challenge in life and how have you overcome it? My weight has been a challenge since I was 8 years old. One day I decided to do something about it. I involved a physician and started a strict regimen of diet and exercise. With the help of my employer, I was able to make this "dream" a reality. His encouragement and guidance was key to making this life change a reality.

Describe something you learned as a child that made a difference in your later years. My ability to explore. Growing up in Fox, we were always challenged to find interesting things to do. I love the wilderness in Alaska, the rolling hills, the snow, the grass, and the trees. The ability to be one with this great state is one to be not only inspired by but encouraged at the vastness of how great it truly is to be Alaskan. I appreciated being young growing up remotely and find ways to learn, grown and appreciate this great state.