Intelligence, personality and talent. You’ll be glad you’re working with a Linker.

Alex Sher

Research Director

HOMETOWN

Baltimore, MD

EDUCATION

Bucknell University (BA)

THINKS

You should always leave it better than you found it.

PASSIONATE ABOUT

New adventures in all forms.

HAS BEEN KNOWN TO

Dance aggressively on a spin bike.

FAVORITE QUOTE

"Whether you think you can or think you can't, you are right." —Henry Ford

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Allie Davenport

Research Manager

HOMETOWN

Greenville, NC

EDUCATION

University of North Carolina - Chapel Hill (BA)

WHAT YOU DO

Try to absorb everything

HAS BEEN KNOWN TO

Never catch anything that's been thrown my way

GUILTY PLEASURE

Michael Buble's Christmas album

FAVORITE MOVIE

Shawshank Redemption

FAVORITE THING ABOUT TLG

Culture of openness

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Allison Koscielniak

Research Manager

HOMETOWN

Raleigh, NC

EDUCATION

Wake Forest University (BA)

THINKS

If your dreams don't scare you, then they aren't big enough

PASSIONATE ABOUT

Good food, good music, and good company (and all things Wake Forest!)

HAS BEEN KNOWN TO

Always be dancing

FAVORITE MOVIE

The Proposal

FAVORITE THING ABOUT TLG

That personality meets research

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Amanda Johnson

Research Director

HOMETOWN

Boca Raton, FL

EDUCATION

University of Central Florida (BS); University of Georgia (MMR)

THINKS

You should strive to learn something new everyday

WHAT MAKES YOU A GOOD RESEARCHER

I am flexible, proactive, and planning and curiosity are in my genes

FAVORITE THING ABOUT TLG

Friendly, smart, committed environment

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Andrew Borum

Vice President

HOMETOWN

Greensboro, NC

EDUCATION

Wake Forest University (BS)

WHAT MAKES YOU GOOD AT YOUR JOB

My ability to connect with people

HAS BEEN KNOWN TO

Take any challenge or dare ever issued

MOST INTERESTING RESEARCH TOPIC

Ankylosing Spondylitis (really, I just like saying it!)

FAVORITE THING ABOUT TLG

The food competitions at the lunch table!

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Andrew Hunt

Senior Research Manager

HOMETOWN

Greensboro, NC

EDUCATION

University of North Carolina - Chapel Hill (BA)

PASSIONATE ABOUT

Golf and everything Carolina!

HAS BEEN KNOWN TO

Put my entire life into Outlook

GUILTY PLEASURE

Watching HGTV and Food Network

FAVORITE QUOTE

"What to do with a mistake: Recognize it, Admit it, Learn from it, Forget it." - Dean Smith

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Anna Morten

Senior Research Manager

HOMETOWN

Memphis, TN

EDUCATION

Wake Forest University (BA)

THINKS

Anything worth doing, is worth doing right

WHAT MAKES YOU GOOD AT YOUR JOB

Being a good listener

FAVORITE MOVIE

All Christmas movies

GUILTY PLEASURE

Any and all shows on TLC

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Annie Gray Dixon

Research Manager

HOMETOWN

Edenton, NC

EDUCATION

University of North Carolina - Chapel Hill (BA)

THINKS

If you don't know what to do just do something!

PASSIONATE ABOUT

Historic preservation, art, dogs, travel, family & friends, impacting our world for the better

WHAT MAKES YOU A GOOD RESEARCHER

Being organized and the desire to learn everyday

HAS BEEN KNOWN TO

Get lost in art museums

FAVORITE THING ABOUT TLG

The people and the culture. Oh, and of course the travel!

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Austin Nissen

Research Manager

HOMETOWN

Cumming, GA

EDUCATION

Wake Forest University (BS)

THINKS

The NBA is rigged

WHAT MAKES YOU A GOOD RESEARCHER

Asking enough questions to get to the root cause

HAS BEEN KNOWN TO

Be found jamming in the car

GUILTY PLEASURE

T Swift, although I don't feel guilty at all

FAVORITE THING ABOUT TLG

Dogs in the office!

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Becky Hutchinson

Proposal Specialist

HOMETOWN

Born in Jersey, grew up in Wisconsin, but call Raleigh, NC home!

EDUCATION

School of Communication Arts / Living Arts College

WHAT YOU DO

Package what TLG can do!

PASSIONATE ABOUT

Making the most of my time with family and friends

FAVORITE QUOTE

"Anyone who has never made a mistake has never tried anything new." - Albert Einstein

FAVORITE MOVIE

Forrest Gump

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Beth Hurtt

Vice President

HOMETOWN

Columbia, MD

EDUCATION

Wake Forest University (BS), University of Georgia (MMR)

THINKS

If everyone is thinking alike, then somebody isn't thinking.

HAS BEEN KNOWN TO

Throw a mean dodgeball.

FAVORITE QUOTE

"Nothing in life is to be feared. It is only to be understood." —Marie Curie

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Brad Camrud

President

HOMETOWN

Moorhead, MN

EDUCATION

Thunderbird (Masters in International Marketing)

WHAT YOU DO

Identify unmet needs to define strategy.

PASSIONATE ABOUT

All things environmental, Caribbean beaches, pinot noir, and karate.

FAVORITE QUOTE

"Do or do not. There is no try." —Yoda, Star Wars: The Empire Strikes Back

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Brandon Richard

Research Director

HOMETOWN

Elon, NC

EDUCATION

University of North Carolina - Chapel Hill (BSBA)

THINKS

Five steps ahead, all the time.

PASSIONATE ABOUT

Children in Kenya who are born into less fortunate situations.

WHAT MAKES YOU A GOOD RESEARCHER

I find the tough answers and find them fast.

HAS BEEN KNOWN TO

Eat chicken tenders at a 4 star restaurant.

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Brian Waters

IT Manager

HOMETOWN

Jacksonville, FL

EDUCATION

Chattahoochee Tech

WHAT YOU DO

Fix things that require electricity!

PASSIONATE ABOUT

My wife and family. As well as cars, boats, camping, and hiking.

GUILTY PLEASURE

Beer and red meat - but it certainly doesn't make me feel guilty.

HAS BEEN KNOWN TO

Plan a last minute weekend getaway.

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Claire Murray

Senior Research Manager

HOMETOWN

Durham, NC

EDUCATION

The University of North Carolina - Chapel Hill (BA)

THINKS

Anything can be an adventure with the right mindset

WHAT MAKES YOU GOOD AT YOUR JOB

Staying positive in all situations and the ability to think quickly on my feet

FAVORITE QUOTE

"If you don't like something, change it. If you can't change it, change your attitude." -Maya Angelou

FAVORITE MOVIE

Zoolander

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Denise Abatzis

Senior Vice President

HOMETOWN

Watertown, NY

EDUCATION

University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill (BSBA)

PASSIONATE ABOUT

Animals of all shapes and sizes.

WHAT MAKES YOU GOOD AT YOUR JOB

I'm an excellent listener and can make people comfortable so that they can be 100% honest.

GUILTY PLEASURE

Terrifically awful reality television. And chocolate. Lots of it.

MOST INTERESTING RESEARCH TOPIC

Most unique: taste test research of different flavors of candy corn. Most interesting: patient research about auto-immune disorders.

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D.L. Burrell

Senior Data Services Manager

hometown

Hendersonville, NC

EDUCATION

North Carolina State University (BA), Western Carolina University (MA)

THINKS

At least once per day.

what you do

Fabricate, aggregate, tabulate, evaluate, propagate.

HAS BEEN KNOWN TO

Play prog-metal music a SMIDGE too loud. Or Broadway showtunes, either one.

GUILTY PLEASURE

Pro-wrestling/MMA podcasts.

FAVORITE THING ABOUT TLG

There's no dead weight, there are no prima donnas and the work environment is amazing.

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Dylan McCue

Senior Research Manager

HOMETOWN

Saxapahaw, NC

EDUCATION

University of North Carolina - Chapel Hill (BA)

PASSIONATE ABOUT

Traveling, meeting new people, and Tar Heel basketball.

WHAT MAKES YOU GOOD AT YOUR JOB

A knack for viewing situations through multiple lenses.

FAVORITE QUOTE

“Life has become immeasurably better since I have been forced to stop taking it seriously.” - Hunter S. Thompson

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Eiman Ali

Associate Research Coordinator

HOMETOWN

Cary, NC

EDUCATION

Meredith College

THINKS

Honesty truly is the best policy

PASSIONATE ABOUT

Equal opportunity and pasta

HAS BEEN KNOWN TO

Give great, unqualified advice

FAVORITE QUOTE

"A bird is safe in its nest - but that is not what its wings are made for." - Amit Ray

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Elizabeth Berry

Associate Project Manager

HOMETOWN

Alpharetta, Georgia

EDUCATION

University of North Carolina - Chapel Hill (BSBA)

THINKS

Action expresses priorities

PASSIONATE ABOUT

Sappy movies, netflix documentaries, good food and family

WHAT MAKES YOU A GOOD RESEARCHER

I'm naturally curious about everything

HAS BEEN KNOWN TO

Organize everything in sight

GUILTY PLEASURE

Acoustic Justin Bieber songs

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Elizabeth Crawford

Associate Project Manager

HOMETOWN

High Point, NC

EDUCATION

University of North Carolina -Chapel Hill (BSBA), Wake Forest University (MSBA)

THINKS

Attitude is everything.

WHAT YOU DO

Learn something new everyday!

HAS BEEN KNOWN TO

Bake thousands of loaves of bread.

FAVORITE QUOTE

"When you stop getting better, you stop being good."

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Elizabeth Sigarto

Associate Project Manager

HOMETOWN

Austin, TX

EDUCATION

University of North Carolina - Chapel Hill (BA)

WHAT YOU DO

Always try first.

PASSIONATE ABOUT

Bon Appetit cooking videos

GUILTY PLEASURE

Watching too much South Park.

FAVORITE THING ABOUT TLG

The freedom to be creative.

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Emily Hull

Research Manager

HOMETOWN

Danville, VA

EDUCATION

Wake Forest University (BS)

THINKS

Happy thoughts

WHAT YOU DO

Bring a different perspective

WHAT MAKES YOU A GOOD RESEARCHER

I sweat the small things

FAVORITE THING ABOUT TLG

No Sunday scaries! When Monday comes around, I'm excited to get to work.

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Erik McDonald

Senior Data Services Manager

HOMETOWN

Pittsburgh, PA

EDUCATION

University of Texas–Arlington (BS)

WHAT YOU DO

Make data more accessible and understandable.

PASSIONATE ABOUT

Reef aquariums...large reef aquariums.

WHAT MAKES YOU GOOD AT YOUR JOB

I build leading edge automation into data tools which leads to cost savings over the long term.

FAVORITE QUOTE

"Look, it's not in my nature to be mysterious. But I can't talk about it and I can't talk about why." - Rusty Ryan, Ocean's Twelve

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Erin Sattenfield

Vice President

HOMETOWN

Winston-Salem, NC

EDUCATION

Bard College (BA); The New School University (MA)

WHAT YOU DO

Find meaning in chaos.

HAS BEEN KNOWN TO

Plan entire vacations around where and what I'm going to eat.

GUILTY PLEASURE

Cheesy nighttime soap operas...and cheese.

MOST INTERESTING RESEARCH TOPIC

The patient's emotional journey between an HIV diagnosis and the decision to begin treatment.

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Ethan Good

Associate Project Manager

HOMETOWN

Waxhaw, NC

EDUCATION

University of North Carolina - Chapel Hill (BSBA)

THINKS

Out loud

PASSIONATE ABOUT

Specialty coffee and climbing rocks

WHAT MAKES YOU A GOOD RESEARCHER

I'm always thinking about the "why" and "how"

FAVORITE QUOTE

"True humility is not thinking less of yourself, it's thinking of yourself less." - R.W.

FAVORITE MOVIE

Shawshank Redemption

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Gordon Toon

Research Director

HOMETOWN

West End, NC

EDUCATION

University of North Carolina - Chapel Hill (BSBA)

PASSIONATE ABOUT

Technology, music, my inner circle, Belgian whites

WHAT MAKES YOU GOOD AT YOUR JOB

Being detail oriented with a knack for looking at a situation or question differently

GUILTY PLEASURE

Three words: "Call Me Maybe"

FAVORITE THING ABOUT TLG

The winning TLG combination of interesting work and great culture

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Hannah Stanley

Research Manager

HOMETOWN

Asheville, NC

EDUCATION

University of North Carolina - Chapel Hill (BSBA)

THINKS

You should do something everyday that scares you

HAS BEEN KNOWN TO

Order pizza three times in one week

FAVORITE QUOTE

Chop your own wood and it will warm you twice

FAVORITE THING ABOUT TLG

The people! They are funny, hard working, and always willing to help

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Helen Morgan

Associate Project Manager

HOMETOWN

Chapel Hill, NC

EDUCATION

Wake Forest University (BA)

WHAT YOU DO

Listen, process, work hard, and solve problems

PASSIONATE ABOUT

Helping others reach their goals, running, family and friends, mindfulness, and the Deacs

WHAT MAKES YOU A GOOD RESEARCHER

I'm detail oriented, curious, and channel my inner 2 year old by asking "why?" and "how?"

FAVORITE QUOTE

"People will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel" - Maya Angelou

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Jase Bumgardner

Senior Vice President

hometown

Laurinburg, NC

education

University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill (BA)

THINKS

Simple solutions to complex problems are inherently appealing and almost always wrong.

PASSIONATE ABOUT

Tar Heel basketball.

WHAT MAKES YOU GOOD AT YOUR JOB

An equal interest in understanding what is and what should be.

MOST INTERESTING RESEARCH TOPIC

Understanding the personal, cultural, corporate and biological drivers of obesity in America.

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Jaz Thatch

Research Manager

HOMETOWN

Concord, NC

EDUCATION

Wake Forest University (BS, MA)

THINKS

You should focus on the positive

WHAT YOU DO

Listen to understand

GUILTY PLEASURE

MTV reality shows

FAVORITE QUOTE

"Nothing will work unless you do." - Maya Angelou

FAVORITE THING ABOUT TLG

Our company culture is unmatched

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Jeff Whiteside

Research Director

HOMETOWN

Raleigh, NC

EDUCATION

University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill (BSBA)

PASSIONATE ABOUT

Anything related to golf… except for duck hooks and the 'yips'.

GUILTY PLEASURE

Reading about quantum mechanics (although not much of the information becomes absorbed in my head).

FAVORITE THING ABOUT TLG

The work provides the opportunity to think analytically and the company culture allows this to happen in flip flops.

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Jennifer Christianson

Accounts Receivable Manager

HOMETOWN

Johnstown, PA

EDUCATION

Carnegie Mellon University (BA)

WHAT MAKES YOU GOOD AT YOUR JOB

I really care about getting things right, down to the last detail.

GUILTY PLEASURE

There's nothing like a good bowl of queso dip.

favorite quote

"People are about as happy as they make up their minds to be." —Abraham Lincoln

favorite thing about tlg

The positive, vibrant atmosphere.

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Jessica Caffrey

Vice President

HOMETOWN

Too many to name. I've moved a lot.

EDUCATION

University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill (BSBA)

THINKS

Our relationships with our clients are the most important thing.

PASSIONATE ABOUT

Dark chocolate and red wine after a long day of research.

FAVORITE QUOTE

"I'd rather live with a good question than a bad answer." —Aryeh Frimer

FAVORITE THING ABOUT TLG

It's a community. Everyone is willing to pitch in and help to make any project more successful.

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Jessica Metcalf

Vice President

HOMETOWN

Houston, TX

EDUCATION

Georgia State University (BS)

Kennesaw State University (MBA)

THINKS

Humor can be found in any situtation. Sometimes you just have to look harder than others

WHAT MAKES YOU A GOOD RESEARCHER

Knowing there is a reason for everything, you just have to find it

HAS BEEN KNOWN TO

Drive completely out of the way in order to get a better price for gas

FAVORITE THING ABOUT TLG

All the Linkers! And knowing I'm not the only one in the room who loves numbers... and Excel!

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Jill Wiener

Research Manager

HOMETOWN

Chapel Hill, NC

EDUCATION

The University of North Carolina - Chapel Hill (BSBA)

PASSIONATE ABOUT

Cheese

WHAT MAKES YOU GOOD AT YOUR JOB

I make to-do lists for my to-do lists

HAS BEEN KNOWN TO

Pet every dog in the vicinity

GUILTY PLEASURE

Lame romantic comedies

FAVORITE QUOTE

"If you're offered a seat on a rocket ship, don't ask what seat! Just get on." - Sheryl Sandberg

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Jillian Vicario

Senior Research Manager

HOMETOWN

Raleigh, NC

EDUCATION

The University of North Carolina - Chapel Hill (BSBA)

WHAT YOU DO

Learn something about everything

PASSIONATE ABOUT

Trying new things and seeing new places

FAVORITE QUOTE

"I never look back, darling. It distracts from the now." -Edna Mode, the Incredibles

FAVORITE THING ABOUT TLG

People who work hard and play hard

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Jim Pullen

Partner

HOMETOWN

Warrensburg, MO

EDUCATION

Washington University (BSEE), Vanderbilt University (MBA)

WHAT YOU DO (IN 5 WORDS OR LESS)

Immerse myself in your business.

HAS BEEN KNOWN TO

Run stupidly long distances. For fun.

FAVORITE THING ABOUT TLG

We're all people pleasers, and it shows in our approach to client service!

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John Minnick

Vice President

HOMETOWN

Indianapolis, IN

EDUCATION

Ball State University (BA)

THINKS

The truth is out there.

PASSIONATE ABOUT

Music, Texas Hold 'Em and sleeping

WHAT MAKES YOU A GOOD RESEARCHER

I can leverage my superpower: Over-thinking.

GUILTY PLEASURE

YouTube prank videos.

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Johnna Hinton

Project Coordinator

HOMETOWN

Cary, NC

EDUCATION

University of North Carolina - Greensboro (BA), Liberty (MA)

WHAT YOU DO

Pay attention to details.

PASSIONATE ABOUT

Traveling, good food and being outside with my dog.

HAS BEEN KNOWN TO

Make a to-do list for my to-do list.

FAVORITE MOVIE

Grease

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Juli Camrud

Accounts Payable Manager

hometown

Mobile, AL

education

University of South Alabama (BS) (The ONLY school in the entire state with no football team!)

what you do

I pay the bills!

passionate about

Travel….especially to Italy.

HAS BEEN KNOWN TO

Jump out of airplanes.

favorite thing about tlg

Working with smart, happy, fun people!

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Julie Heideman

Senior Research Manager

HOMETOWN

Asheville, NC

EDUCATION

University of North Carolina - Chapel Hill (BSBA)

THINKS

A positive attitude can make any situation better.

PASSIONATE ABOUT

Traveling, baking, and anything outdoors.

WHAT MAKES YOU GOOD AT YOUR JOB

To-do lists, enthusiasm, and attention to detail.

FAVORITE QUOTE

Change your thoughts and you change your world. -Norman Vincent Peale

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Katie Kennihan

Research Manager

HOMETOWN

Chapel Hill, NC

EDUCATION

University of North Carolina - Chapel Hill (BSBA)

PASSIONATE ABOUT

Traveling, trying new food, and all kinds of animals

WHAT MAKES YOU A GOOD RESEARCHER

Being able to step back and see the big picture

HAS BEEN KNOWN TO

FaceTime my dogs at least once a week

GUILTY PLEASURE

All things Michael Scott

FAVORITE QUOTE

"Strive not to be a success, but rather of value." - Albert Einstein

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Kavitha Bradley

Vice President

HOMETOWN

Lenexa, KS

EDUCATION

University of National Champions (UNC-Chapel Hill) (BSBA)

WHAT YOU DO

I dig into your data.

PASSIONATE ABOUT

Good food made from scratch with real, fresh, local ingredients.

WHAT MAKES YOU GOOD AT YOUR JOB

I'm really observant of details. Seriously.

HAS BEEN KNOWN TO

Start a dance party at the drop of a hat.

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Kerry Steingraber

Research Director

HOMETOWN

Pinehurst, NC

EDUCATION

University of North Carolina -Chapel Hill (BA)

THINKS

You can never be too prepared.

WHAT YOU DO

Listen. Process. Act.

GUILTY PLEASURE

Driving 30 minutes just to get a Cookout milkshake.

FAVORITE QUOTE

"Things turn out best for the people who make the best of the way things turn out." -John Wooden

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Kristen Busby

Research Manager

HOMETOWN

Wrightsville Beach, NC

EDUCATION

University of North Carolina - Chapel Hill (BSBA)

THINKS

Anything worth doing is worth doing well

PASSIONATE ABOUT

Maintaining my bucket list

WHAT MAKES YOU A GOOD RESEARCHER

Being organized and the desire to learn everyday

FAVORITE QUOTE

Everything will be okay in the end. If it's not okay, it's not the end." - John Lennon

FAVORITE THING ABOUT TLG

The work hard, play hard attitude. And, everyday is different!

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Laura Bayzle

Vice President

HOMETOWN

O'Fallon, IL

EDUCATION

Wake Forest University (BA), Duke University (MBA)

THINKS

We can learn so much from one another and the world if we just stop to listen.

PASSIONATE ABOUT

Promoting social justice.

HAS BEEN KNOWN TO

Make the ivories come alive with a little Chopin and Beethoven.

MOST INTERESTING RESEARCH TOPIC

Observing hotel housekeeping cleaning behaviors.

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Laura Stone

Senior Vice President

HOMETOWN

Raleigh, NC

EDUCATION

University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill (BA)

THINKS

At the core, people are good.

WHAT YOU DO

Connect with your customers.

HAS BEEN KNOWN TO

Be a loose cannon.

MOST INTERESTING RESEARCH SUBJECT

Testing new fabric for women's underwear. Thongs, no less.

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Lauren Yankes

Research Director

HOMETOWN

Durham, NC

EDUCATION

University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill (BSBA)

THINKS

Slightly more than your average blond.

WHAT MAKES YOU GOOD AT YOUR JOB

Learning from my mistakes.

HAS BEEN KNOWN TO

Carry a stun gun when walking home at night. Just in case. The stun gun may or may not be pink.

FAVORITE QUOTE

"People support what they help to create." - Margaret Wheatley

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Lisa Rist

Research Director

HOMETOWN

Pittsburgh, PA

EDUCATION

Duke University (BA), University of Cincinnati (MHA)

THINKS

Choosing optimism is a good way to go

PASSIONATE ABOUT

Creative expression - in theater, films, art, music

HAS BEEN KNOWN TO

Think in the middle of something not going well "at least this'll be an interesting story …!"

FAVORITE QUOTE

Laughter is the fireworks of the soul.

FAVORITE THING ABOUT TLG

The energy, enthusiasm, support and playfulness!

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Liz Kemp

Research Manager

HOMETOWN

Knoxville, TN

EDUCATION

UNC Chapel Hill (BA in Media and Journalism)

THINKS

Life is short. Buy the shoes!

WHAT MAKES YOU GOOD AT YOUR JOB

I'm positive, patient, and always persistent

HAS BEEN KNOWN TO

Finish an entire novel in one sitting

FAVORITE QUOTE

"Keep your eyes on the stars and your feet on the ground." -Teddy Roosevelt

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Lynn Young

Business Manager

HOMETOWN

Atlanta, GA

EDUCATION

Georgia State (BS)

THINKS

It's never as bad as it seems.

WHAT YOU DO

Ensure happy employees.

GUILTY PLEASURE

Laughing when someone falls.

FAVORITE THING ABOUT TLG

We're all friends!

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Maddy Kallman

Analyst and Tracking Specialist

HOMETOWN

Atlanta, GA

EDUCATION

Wellesley College (BA)

THINKS

Everything can be made better with a little glitter.

PASSIONATE ABOUT

Shakespeare

WHAT MAKES YOU A GREAT RESEARCHER

I'm curious about the world.

HAS BEEN KNOWN TO

Eat peanut butter straight from the jar.

FAVORITE THING ABOUT TLG

It's full of the nicest and smartest people.

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Makenna Roth

Associate Project Manager

HOMETOWN

Highlands Ranch, CO

EDUCATION

Wake Forest University (BS)

PASSIONATE ABOUT

All things Colorado, the great outdoors, good brunch and Wake Forest Football!

HAS BEEN KNOWN TO

Menu stalk every restaurant I plan on eating at

GUILTY PLEASURE

Justin Bieber's Christmas album and cookie dough.

FAVORITE QUOTE

"Plan in decades, think in years, work in months, live in days"

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Marisa Edwards

Research Manager

HOMETOWN

Princeton Junction, NJ

EDUCATION

UNC - Chapel Hill (BSBA and Music)

WHAT YOU DO

Ask why

PASSIONATE ABOUT

All animals, traveling and music

HAS BEEN KNOWN TO

Eat a whole box of cookies

GUILTY PLEASURE

Watching singing competition videos on YouTube

FAVORITE QUOTE

"Carpe Diem. Seize the day, boys. Make your lives extraordinary" -John Keating

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Mary Stephens

Research Manager

HOMETOWN

Aurora, IL

EDUCATION

Wake Forest University (B.A. and M.A.)

THINKS

The key to asking a good question is to truly listen to the answer.

PASSIONATE ABOUT

Learning something new everyday

WHAT MAKES YOU A GOOD RESEARCHER

I appreciate the details and also see the big picture.

HAS BEEN KNOWN TO

Listen to the same album for two weeks straight and then never again

FAVORITE THING ABOUT TLG

Everyone is incredibly smart and fun!

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Matthew Humphries

Senior Research Manager

HOMETOWN

Winston-Salem, NC

EDUCATION

University of North Carolina - Chapel Hill (BA)

PASSIONATE ABOUT

Skiing, learning, and building relationships.

WHAT MAKES YOU A GREAT RESEARCHER

Understanding that there are no shortcuts to any place worth going.

GUILTY PLEASURE

House Hunters International

FAVORITE QUOTE

"Go confidently in the direction of your dreams. Live the life you have imagined." - Henry David Thoreau

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Matthew Kulasevig

Associate Quantitative Coordinator

HOMETOWN

Boca Raton, FL

EDUCATION

Florida Atlantic University

THINKS

Life doesn't owe you anything. You have to work for what you want.

WHAT YOU DO

Make other peoples jobs easier

HAS BEEN KNOWN TO

Watch the same movie multiple times in one day

GUILTY PLEASURE

Waking up after noon on a weekend

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Melia Whiteside

Vice President

HOMETOWN

Charlotte (The Queen City), NC

EDUCATION

University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill (BSBA)

HAS BEEN KNOWN TO

Surprise people with my big personality.

MOST INTERESTING RESEARCH TOPIC

Observing pacemakers being implanted in the operating room.

FAVORITE THING ABOUT TLG

I call the people I work with "my friends" before "my co-workers".

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Melissa Pfeil

Vice President

HOMETOWN

Washington, NC

EDUCATION

University of North Carolina -Wilmington (BS); University of Georgia (MMR)

THINKS

You should focus on the things you want to grow.

WHAT YOU DO

Play with quantitative data.

PASSIONATE ABOUT

My family, data and a vegetable garden.

HAS BEEN KNOWN TO

Ask the members of N'SYNC if they were in a band.

GUILTY PLEASURE

90's rap, singing at the top of my lungs in the car and crazy dancing with my boys.

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Michelle Hayes

Research Manager

HOMETOWN

Raleigh, NC

EDUCATION

University of North Carolina - Chapel Hill (BSBA)

THINKS

The best times are usually had when nothing goes right

PASSIONATE ABOUT

Sunshine, blue water, good coffee, learning, books

WHAT MAKES YOU A GOOD RESEARCHER

I love learning about the reason why

HAS BEEN KNOWN TO

Explore every thrift store in a 25 mile radius for a good find

FAVORITE THING ABOUT TLG

The friendly nature and the dogs

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Michelle Hunt, PhD

Senior Vice President

hometown

Durham, NC

education

MIT (BSBA), Virginia Tech (PhD)

what you do

Use statistics to uncover connections.

WHAT MAKES YOU A GOOD RESEARCHER

I like solving puzzles.

guilty pleasure

Homemade macaroni and cheese (not the kind that comes from the blue box).

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Michelle Lester

Senior Vice President

HOMETOWN

Chattanooga, TN

EDUCATION

University of Georgia (BBA) (MMR)

THINKS

You do not need a parachute to sky dive. You only need a parachute to sky dive twice.

WHAT MAKES YOU GOOD AT YOUR JOB

I am curious by nature. I might ask the same questions at a cocktail party as I would in an interview.

FAVORITE QUOTE

"To steal ideas from one person is plagiarism. To steal from many is research." - Wilson Mizner

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Mike Buck

Senior Data Services Manager

HOMETOWN

Winston-Salem, NC

EDUCATION

University of North Carolina-Charlotte (BS)

WHAT MAKES YOU GOOD AT YOUR JOB

Ability to multitask and work well under pressure.

HAS BEEN KNOWN TO

Blow off a little steam at the skeet range.

GUILTY PLEASURE

Almost any high quality nature documentary. Also Aerial America on SmithsonianHD. And Andy Griffith. And NC BBQ.

FAVORITE THING ABOUT TLG

The overall company culture: can-do attitude, friendship, fun, and excellence.

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Mike Morse

Vice President

HOMETOWN

Greensboro, NC

EDUCATION

University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill (BA)

THINKS

It's important to think before taking action.

WHAT MAKES YOU GOOD AT YOUR JOB

I enjoy stepping back and looking at the big picture.

GUILTY PLEASURE

The Bachelor

MOST INTERESTING RESEARCH TOPIC

Discussing fuel additives at an NHRA race.

FAVORITE THING ABOUT TLG

The smiling faces I see every day.

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Morgan Sigler

Research Director

HOMETOWN

Hickory, NC

EDUCATION

Elon University (BA)

THINKS

A positive attitude and hard work are the ingredients for success.

PASSIONATE ABOUT

Traveling to new places and experiencing new cultures.

GUILTY PLEASURE

Singing to Broadway Musicals in my car.

FAVORITE QUOTE

"People rarely succeed unless they have fun in what they are doing." - Dale Carnegie

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Nick Mangine

IT Support Specialist

HOMETOWN

Chittenango, NY

EDUCATION

North Carolina State University (BS, Computer Science)

THINKS

Technology serves people

HAS BEEN KNOWN TO

Ride a motorcycle when it's raining to save gas

GUILTY PLEASURE

Really geeky board games

FAVORITE THING ABOUT TLG

The constant drive to try new things

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Nick Rowland

Senior Quantitative Analyst

HOMETOWN

Atlanta,GA

EDUCATION

Cornell University (BS)

WHAT YOU DO

Create order out of chaos.

WHAT MAKES YOU GOOD AT YOUR JOB

Technical genius, combined with an almost inhuman work ethic, and the temperament of a teddy bear.

HAS BEEN KNOWN TO

Beat his coworkers mercilessly at fantasy football.

MOST INTERESTING RESEARCH TOPIC

Conducting onsite research at a gun show.

FAVORITE THING ABOUT TLG

Steve

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Nicole Morgan

Director - Project Initiation and Compliance

HOMETOWN

Raleigh, NC

EDUCATION

University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill (BA)

PASSIONATE ABOUT

My two adorable (most of the time) little girls!

WHAT MAKES YOU GOOD AT YOUR JOB

This is where being Type A comes in handy.

MOST INTERESTING RESEARCH TOPIC

People's laundry habits and stain problems—most memorable sighting: one man's "eating shirt".

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Nikki Meyer

Research Manager

HOMETOWN

Wilmington, NC

EDUCATION

University of North Carolina -Chapel Hill

THINKS

It's all about perspective.

PASSIONATE ABOUT

Fairness (even though I know life's not fair).

HAS BEEN KNOWN TO

Shop a lot and then return 90% of it.

FAVORITE QUOTE

"The best way out is always through." - Robert Frost

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Parks Tompkins

Research Manager

HOMETOWN

Wilmington, NC

EDUCATION

University of North Carolina - Chapel Hill (BSBA)

THINKS

The more you get lost, the more places you see

PASSIONATE ABOUT

Eating peanut butter sandwiches on top of mountains

HAS BEEN KNOWN TO

Consume more ketchup than the average american family

GUILTY PLEASURE

Frank Sinatra, Series Literature, Photography

FAVORITE QUOTE

"All we have to decide is what to do with the time that is given to us." - Gandalf the Grey

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Patrick Ross

Research Director

HOMETOWN

Pittsburgh, PA

EDUCATION

University of North Carolina - Chapel Hill (BA)

THINKS

The right music makes everything better.

PASSIONATE ABOUT

Raw meat, dark beer, Chelsea FC, and Tar Heel basketball.

WHAT MAKES YOU A GOOD RESEARCHER

Cooperative competitiveness. Or is it competitive cooperation? Either way, I love to help my team win.

HAS BEEN KNOWN TO

Turn any two words into a portmanteau.

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Paul Robinson

Research Director

HOMETOWN

Rockport, MA

EDUCATION

Elon University (BSBA)

THINKS

Even a bad day on the golf course beats a good day anywhere else.

WHAT MAKES YOU A GOOD RESEARCHER

Always wanting to understand the big picture -it's not all about the what but also the why.

HAS BEEN KNOWN TO

Be overly sarcastic at times.

FAVORITE QUOTE

“Great minds discuss ideas; average minds discuss events; small minds discuss people.” - Eleanor Roosvelt

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Raja Gupta

Senior Vice President

HOMETOWN

Birmingham, AL

EDUCATION

University of North Carolina - Chapel Hill (BSBA); Duke University (MBA)

WHAT YOU DO

Turn insights into a compelling strategy.

PASSIONATE ABOUT

Traveling, exploring, and experiencing

HAS BEEN KNOWN TO

Ask three times

MOST INTERESTING/UNIQUE RESEARCH

Self-check out machine ethnography

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Rebecca Bergen

Specialist - Onsite Insights and Proposals

HOMETOWN

McDonough, GA

EDUCATION

Elon University (BA)

WHAT MAKES YOU GOOD AT YOUR JOB

I pay close attention to detail and never settle for less than my best.

HAS BEEN KNOWN TO

Ask open-ended questions that have no clear answer just to get a fun conversation started.

FAVORITE QUOTE

"To the world you may be one person, but to one person you may be the world."

FAVORITE THING ABOUT TLG

It’s like a second family…a home away from home.

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Sam Henderson

Research Manager

HOMETOWN

Raleigh, NC

EDUCATION

University of North Carolina - Chapel Hill (BSBA)

THINKS

Dancing is the best form of exercise

GUILTY PLEASURE

Crunchwrap Supremes

FAVORITE QUOTE

"You miss 100% of the shots you don't take - Wayne Gretzky" - Michael Scott

FAVORITE MOVIE

Remember the Titans

FAVORITE THING ABOUT TLG

Being a part of a family that prioritizes learning and playing

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Shep Zoutewelle

Associate Project Manager

HOMETOWN

Charlotte, NC

EDUCATION

University of North Carolina - Chapel Hill (BSBA)

THINKS

It's better to be kind than right.

WHAT YOU DO

Execute details and think big picture

PASSIONATE ABOUT

Live music, lake days, and Panther football

WHAT MAKES YOU A GOOD RESEARCHER

I won't leave a puzzle left unsolved.

FAVORITE QUOTE

"Do not dare not to dare." - C.S. Lewis

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Sophie Hruza

Vice President

HOMETOWN

Denver, CO

EDUCATION

University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill (BSBA)

PASSIONATE ABOUT

Austin, TX, my puppy, and patio weather

WHAT MAKES YOU A GOOD RESEARCHER

Genuine desire to understand people and what makes them tick

GUILT PLEASURE

True crime documentaries

FAVORITE QUOTE

"No act of kindness, no matter how small, is ever wasted." - Aesop

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Steve Barnard, PhD

Senior Vice President

HOMETOWN

Deland, FL

EDUCATION

University of Florida (BS), University of Tennessee (PhD)

THINKS

If it doesn't smell right, always dig deeper to find the rotten apple.

WHAT MAKES YOU GOOD AT YOUR JOB

I am a bloodhound for potential bias.

HAS BEEN KNOWN TO

Climb a mountain or eat a dozen donuts— anything's fair game.

FAVORITE QUOTE

"You gotta have the right tool for the job, Beavis." —Butthead

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Tom Pfeil

Founder and Managing Partner

HOMETOWN

Haines City, Florida

EDUCATION

A proud member of the Gator Nation (University of Florida) (BSBA), University of Texas-Austin (MBA)

THINKS

Perseverance is the key to life. Well, perseverance and blueberry cobbler.

WHAT YOU DO

Keep wind in the sails.

FAVORITE QUOTE

"Do the ordinary things in an extraordinary way." —Lloyd Newell

MOST INTERESTING RESEARCH TOPIC

Toy truck research with three-year-olds.

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Tommy Galloway

Senior Vice President

hometown

Durham, NC

education

Appalachian State University (BS), University of Georgia (MMR)

WHAT MAKES YOU GOOD AT YOUR JOB

I have been on the client's side; I understand their problems.

HAS BEEN KNOWN TO

Have "strange" things happen while traveling (wife going into labor, volcano while in Europe, earthquake while in Japan).

FAVORITE QUOTE

"Great things are not done by impulse, but by a series of small things brought together." —Vincent Van Gogh

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Wayne Haseley

Senior Vice President

HOMETOWN

Buffalo, NY

EDUCATION

University of Rochester (MBA)

THINKS

Emotion and environment affect us more than we realize.

PASSIONATE ABOUT

Missionary trips to Kenya.

HAS BEEN KNOWN TO

Eat a steak dinner with the client at 11 p.m. and then hit the hotel gym feeling guilty at 1 a.m.

MOST INTERESTING RESEARCH TOPIC

Sitting in men's bathrooms at a casino watching patrons wash their hands for eight hours at a time‚ AND NOT BEING NOTICED BY ANYONE!

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