I am Midwestern—hard work, humility, responsibility, honesty, and empathy are values I carry deeply, shaped by my upbringing with my Grandparents in a small community. Growing up 10 miles outside a village of just 1,200 people offered me a unique perspective on the world and its people, teaching me the importance of finding connection and purpose.

Travel has been central to my journey and learning process. At 14, I traveled solo to China to visit a friend for six weeks, an experience that sparked a lifelong curiosity about cultures and places. Since then, I’ve lived in China and Taiwan, I’ve walked through the ruins of Machu Picchu, gone on safari in India, wandered the in and out of the art museums of Amsterdam, and summited North America’s third-tallest peak, Pico de Orizaba, in Mexico. These experiences helped inform who I am and taught me that Midwestern values are valued the world over.

I have a deep appreciation for nature and the simple joy of moving through it. Whether hiking, running, snowshoeing, biking, or skiing, I seize every opportunity to embrace the outdoors, often sharing those moments with good people and good food at day's end. For me, these experiences are not just activities—they’re a way to stay grounded, energized, and connected to what matters most.

I've been on the Hazel Park Community Coalition (HPCC) board since 2022 and have been serving as Board President since 2023. HPCC was established in 2016 after a tragic overdose revealed the urgent need for substance use prevention in the community. With support from Congressman Sander Levin and the Alliance of Coalitions for Healthy Communities, HPCC adopted the Communities That Care framework to address youth substance use and mental health. Since then, HPCC has worked tirelessly to create a healthier, safer Hazel Park.

It has been immensely rewarding to set a vision and grow the organization in my role as Board President. In the past 24 months we've secured $625K of additional funding for the organization, hired a full time executive director, and created new tools and resources to battle substance use and bolster mental health in the community. Safeguarding Hazel Park youth demands a collaborative effort. By equipping parents, caregivers, teachers, and the community with knowledge and resources, HPCC is creating a supportive network to empower young people to thrive and achieve their full potential.

Hazel Park Community Coalition in the News:

• Jan 16, 2025 - C&G News, Hazel Park Community Coalition details plans for 2025

• Nov 30, 2023 - C&G News, Hazel Park Community Coalition receives federal grant