How I got here…

I am a community-centered educational leader, convener, and coach who believes deeply in building trust and showing up alongside people. My work is rooted in connection, reflection, and the belief that meaningful change happens in relationship with ourselves, with each other, and with the communities we serve.

I grew up on the outskirts of Santa Fe, New Mexico, where much of my childhood was spent outdoors climbing trees, cracking open rocks, and lying in the arroyo behind my home, staring up at the teal blue sky. Those quiet moments shaped how I see the world: grounded in curiosity, possibility, and a deep sense of interconnectedness. It was there that I first began to reflect on what it means to contribute. Contribute to my family, my community, and something larger than myself.

My parents instilled in me the importance of giving back, modeling what it means to be in community with others. Those lessons became a throughline in both my personal life and my professional path. As I navigated life’s complexities, including profound personal loss and unexpected challenges, I learned the importance of resilience, adaptability, and creating space for reflection. Creative practices like writing, painting, and movement became anchors for me, and they continue to shape the way I support others today.

My career spans education, public service, and community-based organizations across New Mexico and Washington. I’ve served as a teacher, family advocate, curriculum designer, and administrator, and have held senior leadership roles focused on equity and family engagement across multiple school districts. Throughout my work, I’ve centered bringing people together (students, families, educators, and community partners) to build shared understanding and move collective efforts forward.

At my core, I am a convener-someone who brings people together to listen, learn, and lead in more community-centered ways. Whether I’m facilitating dialogue, designing learning experiences, or coaching through transition, I approach my work with warmth, thoughtfulness, and a deep commitment to community.

Outside of my professional life, I prioritize time with my family, friends, and cats. I find joy in trees, gardening, painting, and gathering around the table for good food, good drink, and meaningful conversation. Spaces that, much like my work, are rooted in connection.