Nancy Halverson
Vice President Chief Financial Officer

What got you started in advertising?

When I enrolled in college, I wanted to go into music and accounting. I was told that combination could not be done. Students had to pick either "fine arts" or "business," the two didn’t complement each other. I listened to my practical side and chose accounting. When I got a job in the accounts payable department at a local college, I found I spent a considerable amount of time helping the advertising department. They had a terrible time staying within their budget. I showed them the importance of keeping track of what you spend and where you spend it. How important it is to measure results. Working together we were able to find some creative ways to help them reach their goal to spend less and still attract more students to the campus. My college advisor was wrong; the two areas really do complement each other, especially in advertising.

Who was a big influence in your life?

The person who influenced me was my high school band and orchestra director, Frank Italiano. He taught us there were three types of people in the world; the doers, the watchers, and the people who don’t know what’s going on. We had the choice on who we wanted to be. Frank also stressed the importance of being prepared, which at that time meant always having a pencil with you on your music stand to make notes on the music. Frank was a very wise man.

What was "your finest moment," the thing you’re most proud of?

Personally: The birth of my children. Professionally: I’ve survived going through a couple of tax audits. During the last one, we discovered the tax code was unclear regarding advertising and the Internet. This prompted revising and rewriting a new tax code.

What was your most embarrassing moment in this business?

I was helping answer the phones, and accidentally hung up on one of our biggest clients.

What attracted you to Ovation?

When my children were young, I was working part-time at a local radio station and heard from a co-worker that Ovation was looking for someone to help with billing. They had nice people, offered flexible hours that fit my schedule, so I thought I’d give it a try. I’ve been here 22 years.

What makes a great brand?

A great brand needs to start with a good product. When advertising brings the thoughts, emotions, and behaviors that happen instantaneously with name recognition, the product is transformed into a great brand.

What’s your biggest pet peeve? (work or personal)

People who continually have negative attitudes.

What’s the most important thing you’ve learned about the advertising?

Don’t be afraid to try something new. Always show the benefit, how it personally impacts the customer’s life. Make sure you find a way to track, measure, and analyze your results.

What talent do you wish you had?

I love to sing, but wish I were better. Lucky for me, my church choir will take anyone.

If you had to live on a desert island, what would you miss most?

Of course I’d miss my family, but I’d also miss being able to take long, hot showers.

What can’t you live without?

My family, faith, and friends.

What are your plans for after advertising?

Retire, perform volunteer work in my community, and baby sit for grandchildren (or grand-dogs).

What’s your favorite sports team?

Green Bay Packers and the Logan Wrestling Team

What was growing up like for you?

I grew up in a family of five girls and one bathroom. You definitely learned how to share. Church, music, and family played a big role in our life, and it still does today.

What do you do for a good time when you’re not working?

I love spending time with my family, taking walks with our dog Mikey, singing and playing the flute with my church choir, reading, and baking cookies.

Do you have any kids?

Yes, my husband Mark and I have three wonderful children. Our daughter Kendra is 25 and lives and works in Rochester, Minnesota. Wade is 21 and attends college in La Crosse and lives at home. Last, but not least, is Mikey (who the kids think is our favorite), our one-year-old, overly friendly, lovable, chocolate lab.

What are your favorite Internet sites?

Google gets me where I want to go.

If you could travel anywhere in the world, where would you go and why?

A few years ago, I took a two-week, seven-country European tour with my daughter. I found Italy fascinating and would love to return with my husband.