Upbringing
My parents taught me that, to be kind and caring toward one another, it is not necessary to always agree with one another. Even after their divorce, they continued to set the example that there is always something that can bring people together. My mother and step-father were both middle school educators, my father a law enforcement officer, and my step-mother a volunteer for every community organization from the United Way to the local cancer center. They modeled for me that compassion for others and service to community are not only the right things to do but play an integral role in a joyful and fulfilling life. 

Education and Employment
A Hoosier through and through - I graduated from Marion High School in Marion and attended Hanover College in Hanover. After graduation, I served two years as an AmeriCorps member providing mentorship for high school students. I have more than 20 years experience in nonprofit leadership in the education and healthcare fields, and I now serve as a Vice President for a large nonprofit focused on education and the well-being of young children. I serve as the Chair of the Governor-appointed Commission on Service and Volunteerism for the state of Indiana, Serve Indiana, and I actively advocate for AmeriCorps at the federal level.