As the employees of Stanford Sierra Camps work to create a lasting experience for their guests, Tegan Davidge-Ludwig focuses her attention and energy on creating a fulfilling experience for the team. As the Human Resources Manager, Tegan works to provide and improve employee programs and opportunities because she believes that when you invest in people, they will invest in the organization as a whole. Beyond her work, she continues to lead and inspire as a “Big Sister” with the Big Brothers Big Sisters foundation. Learn a little more about Tegan in her Q&A below.
Congratulations to this week’s 40 under 40 honoree, Tegan Davidge-Ludwig!
Can you tell us a little about your responsibilities and accomplishments in your current position?
As the Human Resources Manager for Stanford Camp, one of my responsibilities is to advocate for our team members and advance our workplace programs. I’ve recently been driving a push for enhancing and promoting a solid compensation program for our team. In addition to that, I regularly improve and implement new and exciting employee events, wellness programs, workplace flexibility programs, and ensure we are providing training and educational opportunities for our staff so we can better our organization as a whole. I want our team members to be proud of where they work and to have organizations in our community look to us as a business leader that is ahead of industry standards. I can’t stress enough the importance of investing in your people. When you invest in your people they will invest in your organization. Make sure to focus on outcomes that make a difference for your team members which in turn will make a difference for your guests and organization. I am fortunate to work for a remarkable company that fosters a culture of taking care of their people. I recently came across a picture that reaffirmed exactly my thoughts, the dialogue between a CEO & CFO stated:
CFO asks CEO: “What happens if we invest in developing our people and they leave us?”
CEO says: “What happens if we don’t and they stay?”
Every time I read that it makes me laugh. If there is anything I can leave readers with it is this, have the courage to be the change you want to see in your organization.
What has been your favorite professional moment in the last year?
My favorite professional moment in the last year was finding out that I had been accepted into ShePeak, a leadership and development training program that’s created by women for women. The program started in May of 2018 and ended in December of 2018. This unique program consisted of biweekly virtual video conferencing for 7 months focusing on topics such as the adaptive mindset, emotional agility, values, essentialism, courageous authenticity, and personal vision to name a few. It was a rewarding and intellectually stimulating program. I learned so much during that short period and am so grateful for the opportunity.
Do you have a professional/life mantra that you live by?
Promoting self-care and creating a work/life balance. It’s so important to take care of yourself so you can be the best version of you for your family and colleagues. With the advancement of technology, constantly being ‘on’ or available, along with having a desk job, can really take a toll on your physical and mental health. That’s why it’s important to power down and disconnect when you’re not at the office. I really try and stick to working an 8-hour day. Anything after that results in reduced output and lower productivity levels. When the suns out I usually take a quick 30-minute walk mid-day to increase my blood flow, boost my mood and energy levels to finish out the day strong. Outside of work I practice yoga regularly and schedule monthly massages as part of my self-care routine. My family and friends know how much I love my sleep, I’m fortunate to log about 8-9 hours a night. You should really try it!
Who is your role model?
Throughout my life I have had several role models who I have looked up to for guidance, growth and support. I can’t give all the credit to one role model when so many individuals have influenced my life all in very distinct and different ways. All I can say is, never stop having someone to look up to no matter your age. With every new chapter of our lives may come a new and inspiring person to look up to.
Why choose Tahoe to make your home and career?
It’s funny how life can work out and where your journey leads you unexpectedly. I came to Tahoe for a 10-week internship program after graduating from Colorado State University, and I honestly didn’t know where I’d end up after that. When I made the move from Colorado to Tahoe, I didn’t pack much knowing in 2 ½ months I’d be heading back home. That realization changed very quickly for me. During my time with Aramark, as an intern, I was selected to participate in Aramark’s Accelerated Management Program. I was 1 of 7 interns selected out of 70 across the United States that summer. I felt honored to have been extended an invitation to continue on with the company in such a capacity. That was a turning point for me where I felt my career was starting to launch. I spent 5 wonderful years with the company and was thankful to have a year-round job in Tahoe. During that time, I met and married my husband Nate. We recently bought a house in the Al Tahoe neighborhood and I couldn’t think of a better place to call home.
Are you active in any volunteer roles or community groups?
I actively volunteer in our community in various ways. I am a ‘Big Sister’ with the Big Brothers Big Sisters of America program, a volunteer and Ambassador for the Tahoe Chamber, and am a part of the Tahoe Regional Young Professional group.
In July of 2016 I became a ‘Big Sister’ with the Big Brothers Big Sisters foundation. For the past few years I’ve had the privilege to be a mentor to Fiona, my ‘little sister’. Fiona was 9 years old when we were matched, she’s now 11 going on 12 this June. In just 2 ½ years I have had the opportunity to make a difference in a little girls’ life. I have shared my love for the outdoors with her by providing outdoor experiences she might not have otherwise had. Our ‘dates’ have consisted of hiking around the Tahoe basin, rock climbing at Camp, visiting Taylor Creek while the Kokanee Salmon are spawning, taking pedal boats out on the lake, countless days at the beach swimming, riding our bikes around town, going to the park, ice cream dates, teaching her to ‘drive’ our ATV, overnight camping trips, star gazing, and more.
To see her love and appreciation grow for the outdoors is rewarding knowing I created those experiences for her. Beyond sharing the outdoors with Fiona, I’ve connected with and created a bond with a little girl that is special and unique. I’ve been able to be a positive influence for her, to be a mentor, and an adult she can look up to. I am most proud of the relationship I have created with Fiona and am proud to be a mentor within my community.
What is your favorite thing to do outside of work?
Play! That’s why we all live here right? I recently took up mountain biking this past summer and have been loving this adventure sport. It’s a great way to see the beautiful trails and picturesque views of Lake Tahoe while getting in some great cardio! I also enjoy playing volleyball, softball, practicing yoga, running, wakeboarding and wake surfing, along with snowboarding and snowshoeing in the winter.
Where are your favorite South Shore stomping grounds
During the summer months I love playing volleyball at Regan Beach with friends, riding my beach cruiser around town, or you can find me down at Nevada Beach with my pup Gage and husband Nate. During the winter months you can usually find me at Still Water Yoga Studio where I spend much of my time as I am currently becoming a certified yoga instructor.
Do you know a deserving young professional? Nominate them here.