Shelby (Stoolman) Sanders – Senior Director of Communication – Lamb Weston

Shelby Sanders said that she’s a Midwesterner who was raised in a family that valued hard work and encouraged her to use her talents and abilities to give back. She said that her grandmother had an enormous impact on her life and showed her what it was like to be unflappable. That type of resilience is something that Sanders aspires to have.

“A core philosophy in our family is to always bring your best to the situation,” she said. “No task is too small to be done well.”

Sanders completed her undergraduate degree in journalism and communication studies at the University of Iowa, then went on to complete her MBA at Boise State University. For the last eight years, she has served as the senior director of communication at Lamb Weston and the president of the Lamb Weston Foundation. In addition to these roles, she has worked as an adjunct faculty for the professional MBA program at Boise State University for three years.

At Lamb Weston, she has been able to lead communication around the company’s spin off and public listing in 2016.

“This work challenged me and taught me the importance of agility during times of change,” she said. “Since that time, I’ve had the opportunity to work on rewarding projects including opening new manufacturing facilities around the world, and welcoming new team members through acquisition. I’ve had the chance to travel globally, visiting the company’s sites in China and the Netherlands, and gaining a new perspective on global communication.”

Working with students at Boise State University is also incredibly inspiring for her.

“I love having the opportunity to hear from them directly about their experiences at work and having a front row seat to the different dynamics they each face trying to communicate effectively at work,” she said. “Working with these students has influenced me immensely, and I’m grateful for the opportunity.”

Sanders also stays busy volunteering locally. She has served as an event volunteer for Special Olympics Idaho and as a volunteer and volunteer trainer for Meridian Valley Humane Society.

“Shelby has skills that embody the top of her field professionally, but perhaps more importantly, she is keen to help others grow and develop, whether they are a CEO or an intern,” wrote Teresa Paulsen. “She is unwaveringly ethical, and she genuinely cares and has empathy for those closest to her as well as people around the globe. She is an influencer, and she understands and embraces her ability to influence others to do the right thing.”

Sanders aims to continue bringing her perspectives to the table to demonstrate how effective communication can add value to projects and spur growth.

“I’m a driven leader focused on how I can bring my best self to any project, and I strive to build my skills to better my workplace and my community,” she said.

When she’s not at work, you can find Sanders attending concerts with her husband or reading books.