Fast Facts About Denise

Discipline: Accounting

Hometown: Terre Haute, IN

Education: Indiana Business College (Harrison College)

Favorite Lunch Spot: The Watering Hole

 

From the infectious smile to the sassy attitude, Denise Sallee, Accounting Assistant, brings much joy and laughter to Schmidt Associates.

Tell us about your background.

I grew up in the woods in West Terre Haute and my whole family still lives there. After high school, I started at Ivy Tech Nursing School to become an LPN. I made it as far as Qualified Medical Assistant when I decided I didn’t like blood. I took a year off, got engaged, moved to the “big city” of Indianapolis and started attending Indiana Business College (which eventually became Harrison College). Along the way, I got married (and divorced), had three kids, and got my degree in business management with a specialty in accounting.

How did you land at Schmidt Associates?

After graduating, I worked for a mechanical contracting company for five years. When I moved to Indy, I wanted to work downtown. I saw an advertisement that Schmidt Associates was hiring and sent in my resume. The Accounting Manager that hired me always said he hired me because when he asked me what my long-term goal was I replied, “To have your job.” He thought that was awesome.

Outside of Schmidt Associates, I have always wanted to run a bar, but that hasn’t happened yet. Instead, for several years, I owned and ran a tanning and hair salon.

What is your family like?

I have three children. Nick is 23 and will be done with his Master’s in Criminal Justice in December. He hopes to eventually work for the FBI. And I have two teenage daughters that keep me busy. Morgan is 17 and just got her license, so she is always on the go. Olivia (15), is a cheerleader and takes tumbling. And then there is Jack, my best friend. He is a 6-pound Yorkie with a sassy personality just like his mama!

What inspires you?

Definitely my kids. They are the reason that I want to be better and continue to grow. I always want to be a good role model for them.

You’re a big sports fan, right?

I am a huge Pacers and Colts fan—hometown teams all the way. Every year, I help set up Schmidt Associates’ Christmas families drive. I love offering a donation-driven jeans day that enables us all to wear our Colts gear to the office.

Do you have any secret talents?

I can pick up anything with my toes. My mama always told me that was a talent!

What’s your favorite vacation spot?

I am typically a beach person and am rarely happier than when my toes are sunk beneath the sand. I am pretty sure I was a pirate in my last life. I like the beach, I like the ocean, and I LOVE rum.

We also recently went to New Orleans and did all kinds of tours. We loved it! We did a historical two-hour walking tour at night in the French Quarter that was incredible. And now I have an authentic voo-doo doll on my desk just taunting people to cross me!