In her own words: Eldorado's Stacy Cunningham

Northern Nevada Business Weekly: Tell us about the Eldorado and the duties of your position.

Stacy Cunningham: The Eldorado Hotel Casino is the premier property in Northern Nevada for gaming, dining, lodging and entertainment and has something to offer each and every guest. My specific responsibilities are to run the day-to-day operations of the hotel division, which consists of housekeeping, public area housekeeping, wardrobe, front desk, bell desk, valet and reservations/PBX.

NNBW: How did you enter this profession?

Cunningham: I started out owning and operating a Merry Maids Franchise, so it was a natural transition into the hospitality industry.

NNBW: What's been the most challenging aspect for you personally as northern Nevada's gaming revenue has declined over the past decade?

Cunningham: Maintaining the high level of expectations that our guests have become accustomed to has been challenging but not impossible by any means.

NNBW: What's the most important thing you have learned in your career?

Cunningham: It's important to know that you have to earn respect; a title does not "entitle" you.

NNBW: What was your first job?

Cunningham: Working as a cashier.

NNBW: Tell us about your dream job. Why aren't you working it?

Cunningham: My dream job was to become a forensic pathologist. Although the aspects of the job still fascinate me, the rigors of actually becoming a forensic pathologist seemed a bit extreme.

NNBW: Have any advice for someone who wants to enter your profession?

Cunningham: Have passion and love for your job and always thank your team members and let them know when they have done a job well done.

NNBW: Tell us about the most fun you have had on the job.

Cunningham: When I was named Manager of the Year in 2006 and won a trip to Hawaii, and when I was named the Eldorado's Woman of Achievement.

NNBW: What's the best advice anyone ever gave you?

Cunningham: Surround yourself with great people.

NNBW: What are your favorite hobbies or pastimes? How do you spend your time away from work?

Cunningham: My time away from work is spent traveling, golfing, attending concerts, sporting events basically anything outside.

NNBW: What has been your biggest professional disappointment? Accomplishment?

Cunningham: My biggest professional disappointment has been holding myself back from certain opportunity or advancements from lack of confidence. My biggest professional accomplishment has been finding the confidence to excel and continually advance through my professional development.

NNBW: What did you dream of becoming when you were a kid?

Cunningham: I thought it would be fun to be a flight attendant.

NNBW: If you had enough money to retire right now, would you? Why or why not?

Cunningham: If I had enough money I would retire and spend my free time volunteering.

NNBW: What's the last concert or sporting event you attended?

Cunningham: Blake Shelton at the Reno Events Center and an Aces Baseball game.

NNBW: What's your perfect vacation spot?

Cunningham: Tahiti ... I haven't been, but I'm working on it!

NNBW: Why did you choose a career in northern Nevada? What do you like most about working and living here?

Cunningham: I was born and raised in northern Nevada. I love this community, the seasons and all this town has to offer. I also wanted my daughter to have the same experiences and opportunities growing up as I did.

My career and the ability to grow and advance has always been a priority for me. Working in northern Nevada at the Eldorado Hotel Casino has given me and continues to give me these opportunities. My participation in work-related associations and boards allows me to network and work with others all over the country.

The basics:

Name: Stacy Cunningham, director of hotel operations, Eldorado Hotel Casino

How long have you been in this job? Eight months in this position, nine years at the Eldorado

How long in the profession? 23 years

Education: Some college courses

Last book read? "Against Medical Advice" by James Patterson and Hal Friedman

Favorite movie? 9 to 5

What's on your iPhone? Pretty much everything

Spouse/kids/pets? Daughter Shelby; dogs Bella and Princess.

Know someone whose perspective you want to share with NNBW readers? Send contact information to: rsabo@nnbw.biz or call 775-850-2146.