Born and raised in Huber Heights, Ohio, a small city next door to Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, I was raised in a two-parent household with six siblings. The youngest of three girls and oldest of four brothers. Growing up in a big family helped me to understand what it means to look out for others, to set an example and to work hard even when no one is watching. These are values that have guided me through my personal journey and continue to shape my approach to public service.

My father worked three jobs to afford our suburban lifestyle, and my mother found unique opportunities to contribute financially to the family as a stay home mom, until everyone finished high school. Both parents had careers as entertainers before starting our family and they taught us the importance of responsibility, leadership, commitment and compassion.

As a young adult I established long-term relationships with community leaders and elected officials in my hometown by helping to facilitate community meetings and coordinating programs designed to mentor youth and support families providing access to resources.

Our close-knit community was rooted in service, resilience, and diversity and as a high school Reserve Officer’s Training Corps (ROTC) brat, my youth was shaped by military values—discipline, sacrifice, and dedication to something greater than myself. These experiences instilled in me a deep respect for service and a lifelong commitment to giving back. 

Fast forward to now, I am the proud mother of two sons who also understand and live by those same values. In 2006, my husband and I moved our family to Burnsville, Minnesota and within months I began volunteering with the City Planning Commission conducting research on a composting project that led to a partnership with Valley Natural Foods, to grow and sell healthy vegetables in the food coop. This opportunity connected me to our local government and began my journey establishing relationships with our neighbors.

I am ready to lead with integrity, transparency, and an unwavering dedication to serve Burnsville and what I offer is a strong belief in community, accountability, and to ensure every voice is heard.

Education:

Master’s Degree, Public Administration – Hamline University

Undergraduate Degree, Political Science – Public Policy / Urban Affairs (minor) – Wright State University

American Bar Association Certified Paralegal

Project Management Professional (PMP)

Experience and Volunteering:

City of Burnsville Economic Development Commission, Chair

MAPE Meet & Greet, Chair

MN Governors Workforce Development Board, Staff

State of Minnesota Civic Engagement Committee, Chair

State of Minnesota Equity and Inclusion, Co-Chair

National League of Cities, Volunteer

Truancy Mediator, middle/high school

State of Ohio Arbitrator – Contract Negotiator