Reflections Magazine Issue #80 - Spring 2014 | Page 26

Feature Article She said her goal is to become the next Zig Ziglar, Tony Robbins or John Maxwell “because all the top motivational speakers are men, and it’s time for me to shatter that glass ceiling now!” she said. In 2011, McCormick received the Congressional Veteran Commendation from U.S. Senator Sam Johnson for her commitment and duty and community as a military veteran (left). A Motivational Message While at Siena Heights, McCormick credited faculty members like Tim Husband and Carl Kaster for opening up her mind to new opportunities and goals. “Siena’s mission to become competent, purposeful and ethical stayed with me in my military service,” she said. “It was about becoming my best self every day.” 26 | Reflections Spring ’14 The Sand Creek, Mich., native said she has her own motivational message to Siena Heights students. “Believe in yourself and your abilities first,” said McCormick, whose parents, Tim ’84, and Mary ’81 are also Siena Heights graduates. “Build your confidence from within, then lead yourself in the actions to your desired outcome. “If I hadn’t been injured, would I still be flying? Oh yeah!” she continued. “Do I miss it every day? Oh yeah! But if I hadn’t gone through all the struggles while serving, the injury, would I have the message I share today? … My life would have gone in a completely different direction, and now, I’m so fully in my purpose, my calling, to inspire leadership at a personal level, that I can’t imagine a different outcome.” u