Currently, I am pursuing a PhD in Public Policy and Administration at Boise State University. This challenging program allows me to delve deeply into the intricacies of leadership and policymaking, with a distinct focus on their impacts on our communities, and the public and nonprofit sectors. Before earning my PhD, I completed a Masters in Adult Organizational Learning & Leadership, aligning with my conviction that leadership should prioritize our shared humanity. My graduate studies involved an intriguing exploration of a community troubled with incivility and then looked at the ways we could overcome that by fostering heart-centered communication and intention. And I incorporate all that I learned into the ways I help organizations navigate similar challenges.

I am host of the podcast, Our Kids Our Schools which helps to bring together our school communities. Each episode is an exploration of topics that help to demystify the educational landscape and provide practical strategies for fostering a collaborative school community. This is not just a podcast, but a tool for change—empowering you to take part in shaping a supportive and inclusive environment for our children and teens. Learn more in our latest feature article.

I worked with the Idaho Adoption Coalition to help their organization focus their mission and get at the heart of the intent for their group. I helped facilitate community outreach, connected conversations and spoke out for changes in legislation. I've had the privilege of collaborating with education leaders, infusing renewed value into public engagement and fostering a climate of acceptance for divergent viewpoints and conflict. This process is a testament to the transformative power of embracing change, opening dialogues, and navigating disagreement, ultimately molding a more diverse, inclusive, and resilient educational environment.

I started an Instagram series to give teenagers a voice, to invite them to the table and allow them to share their perspective. Through my own family’s communication challenges, I’ve created a set of assessments and tools that allow families to come together and truly hear one another.

As the leader of Idaho PTA, my tenure has been marked by persistent dedication and proactive initiatives, qualities that were cultivated during my time as a local unit president in my rural community. Serving in that capacity, I navigated the unique challenges and opportunities of rural education, implementing strategies that fostered both academic growth and community engagement. This invaluable experience underpins my current role, enabling me to advocate effectively for educational policies that benefit all Idaho children and build meaningful bridges between families, educators, and administrators.

I served for 4 years as a school board director and saw the need for balanced governance in our local school system. I didn’t sit back and complain behind closed doors. I created a professional development program for the school board and its members. And I worked closely with them in assessing the milestones the program needed to face.