I arrived in Harrisonburg, VA as a student at James Madison in 2010 and graduated with my Bachelor's Degree in 2014. I then completed my Master of Arts in Teaching in 2015 also at JMU, obtained my teaching license, and taught in local schools for the next 8 years in 1st grade and 3rd grade. During that time, I developed a love for teaching students who were learning English as a second language and building relationships with their families. Additionally, I received my Certificate in Restorative Justice in Education from Eastern Mennonite University. The knowledge I gained in this program deepened my passion for creating accessible learning opportunities for all, especially for those who are faced with barriers in the traditional education setting.  

In 2023, I transitioned from teaching to a position in the JMU College of Education, and in the spring of 2024, I joined the team at the SPCE. I am excited to be working at JMU in a capacity that does so much to serve the local community and create life-long learning experiences for Harrisonburg residents.  

In my free time, I enjoy cooking, playing soccer, floral arranging, traveling, and walking my Bernese Mountain Dog around the neighborhood.