Lisa is one of our founding members and a true leader within Lady Sentinel. She’s known for being incredibly helpful and supportive of everyone around her. Classy, engaging, and full of great ideas, she has played a big role in strengthening our community. Whether on the range or outside of it, Lisa is often seen connecting with other members and leading by example.

We asked Lisa a few questions so you could get to know her better — here’s what she had to say:

What first motivated you to start training with Lady Sentinel, and how has that reason evolved over time?

“I had been looking for a women’s shooting group, and a place to grow as I was getting more comfortable, but I still wanted support. I wanted a safe place to take on a new challenge and to learn more about firearms. I wanted to learn a variety of skills and I wanted an instructor to coach me, without a lot of pressure. I had to do this on my terms, but the right instructors have been able to nudge me to lean into new challenges. ”

What’s one way training has impacted your life outside the range — in confidence, mindset, or everyday situations?

“Since I started training, my family has even noticed that I am more situationally aware of my surroundings and I am more comfortable with a variety of guns. As a teacher, I wanted to be able to disarm a gun if the need arose, or use my trauma training. A few weeks after my trauma training, I helped a student having a seizure, and I was able to coach a colleague on how to put on a tourniquet. I now carry & conceal, and since I travel on the road for my job, I feel safe, knowing that I can defend myself.”

What has been your favorite Lady Sentinel moment or memory so far?

“My favorite LS moments:

1. Back in the spring, Randi McSpadden and I were getting ready for a match. Unlike other competitions where you are pitted against your opponents, we worked together to strategize how to load our mags, and when/where to drop them. We talked about holsters and cheered each other on. There was no competition between us… just within ourselves to do our personal best!
2. Cheering on fellow Ladies at our matches – I’m not good at taping up the holes after each round, but I will be the gal pumping you up before you shoot, and clapping and shouting for you when you are done!
3. My personal favorite memory was hitting the clay pigeon when we shot trap. NEVER, in a million years, did I think that I could hit a moving target! The pin that the RO gave me still makes me smile and stand a little taller.”

If another woman was nervous about joining, what would you say to encourage her to take the first step?

“For a lady who is intrigued, I encourage her to think what she would say to her younger self about any milestone in her life that was challenging. I would ask her, ‘What would you write in that letter to your younger self, to reassure that girl that she will become so much more in life, by taking this step?’ I would share that every single one of our members is alongside you to support you… no nasty cliques, no trash talk, no shame… just support, however you need it. Conquer your fear… you are worth it! Also, the support network that you create in LS will help you in other parts of your life. We have become a sisterhood like none other that I have experienced. We stick by each other! I truly value the friendships that I have made in LS. ”

Why do you keep showing up — what’s your “why” for continuing to train and grow with this community?

“I keep showing up because I value the cycle of continuous development and improvement. Although I am a perfectionist, I take the time to reflect, set my new goal, and I work hard to improve. Every time that I am at The Range, a staff member (and even fellow shooters) are willing to share free advice. I appreciate their insights. The industry’s online platforms are very supportive, too. I’ve never felt ashamed to ask a question.”

Tell us something fun about yourself outside of shooting — a hobby, hidden talent, or favorite way to spend your time.

“Outside of LS, I work full-time at a law firm and part time for Southeast Missouri State University. My hobbies are mostly in volunteering for Greater St. Louis Honor Flight and as a recreational therapist for Shriner’s Hospitals for Children. I also can be seen at events supporting Backstoppers and The Gary Sinise Foundation. My family and I are very involved in various Masonic fraternal organizations, as we are pictured below… we enjoy serving in civic roles. Last but not least, I love looking for the unsung hero who breaks the case in Dateline, and I am known for my online commentaries when I watch pageants. ”

Lisa is an amazing example of the courage, growth, and leadership that Lady Sentinel is all about. We are proud to have her as part of our founding sisterhood.