Leadership and Community Engagement

In this second part of an interview with Debi Pauletto, Debi describes her history at UGM and looks forward to the future. But first, Executive Director Phil Altmeyer shares some thoughts about Debi.

After 16 years of investment, Debi has left her stamp on UGM. 

Why did you decide to work at UGM?

After volunteering for about two years, I was invited to join staff as an interim co-director of Anna Ogden Hall for three months.  At the end of these three months, my co-director and I pleaded with Phil to let us continue.  We had a huge learning curve ahead of us but were passionate about the hope women coming through our doors could find.  At that time, Anna Ogden Hall acted as both a crisis shelter and a recovery program.

What other positions have you held at UGM?

I think chief, cook, and bottle washer would sum it up.  I wish I had all the name tags for all my positions.  I served as co-director of Anna Ogden Hall for four years. From 2003-2008, I was the sole director. I tried to semi-retire from UGM and joined the Development department in donor relations. I later served as Advancement Director. I returned to full-time in 2010 when I realized UGM was going to expand into Kootenai County. And when we opened the doors to the Center for Women and Children, I started my current position in Community Relations.

What parts of your personality come in handy in your job?

I will answer from my life languages. My primary life language is "producer." I love to manage, and I always have a plan. I love the whole business of hospitality - welcoming people and making them feel at home. I am also a responder, which means I truly care, and I have a heart to serve. Combine these traits with what is needed to direct or engage in  community relations, and things will happen.

How have you changed/grown since starting at UGM?

You could say I too went through a program of Grace and Genesis. As the saying goes, you can't lead where you yourself are not willing to go.  All the learning has been like an ongoing education. There were lots of self-evaluations, both publicly and privately, and I learned to take risks and not allow failure to stop me. 

What will you miss most about your work?

I am one that focuses on what's ahead instead of what's behind.  I know that I am not completely finished with UGM.  I am teaching a class over the summer to stay connected weekly.  My future will include encouraging and mentoring women, as well as, seeking opportunities to contribute to that which conforms to the Lord’s heart.

What are you most looking forward to about retirement?

Retirement only means that I am entering a new chapter of life, hopefully, a little slower paced. I’m excited to help my husband's business with a succession plan, so our son can successfully take a leadership role. Oh, and I am starting a new sport—bicycling. I have a goal to ride on the Centennial Trail from Seven Mile to Coeur d’Alene. Not all at one time, but in pieces. Anyone want to join me?

We are blessed by the impact Debi has had on so many men and women. If you want to read about some of the lives being impacted at UGM, sign up for our newsletter.