Where are you from?

I am from northern Kentucky.

How would you describe yourself in 3 words?


Nurturer, educator, and a strengths-based leader.

What is your favorite color? 

Orange

What is one of your favorite hobbies?


I really enjoy doing pilates. I have done it for a very long time. I also love to learn about whine and really enjoy going to whine tastings.

What is your favorite food?


I love sushi!

If you could have a superpower, what would it be?


I want to gift all the children access to a good education. I believe it is the best way to get them out of difficult social issues, such as domestic violence and poverty. It is important to help them get involved in the school system.

What is a dream that you have? What is something that you are passionate about?

I would want to open a holistic, wellness self-care center for women and girls where they could come in and focus on their mental/physical health while relaxing. I envision the center having a smoothie bar and yoga classes. It should also be serene and relaxing.

Tell us about a very difficult experience in your life.  How did this situation weaken you?  How did it make you stronger?

During my childhood, I was not close with my father. My father not really around during my early years.  He would occasionally show up. I had to learn how to be independent and to focus on myself. I also needed to learn how to separate the differences between who he is and who I am. As you grown into an adult, you need to set boundaries that people can understand.

What has been a challenge in your RISE-ing process?  How have you overcome those challenges? 

I think the biggest challenge in my RISE-ing process was finding a group of people with whom I could share my personal problems with and who would accept my flaws. If you don’t lean on other people, you are going to struggle. In the beginning, I was trying to do everything by myself. However, every person needs to have their own “squad”. By finding my “squad”, my confidence and self-esteem increased. These connections hold a very special and meaningful place in my heart.

What advice would you give to people who are struggling with a very difficult life experience?

PRESS PAUSE ON YOUR LIFE FOR A MINUTE. We live busy and frantic lives because we are always on the go. For example, I was recently talking to a woman who pressed pause on her life. She told me that she could finally hear her own thoughts. That really resonated with me because I realized that I do not hear my own thoughts sometimes. We need to stop and give ourselves time and space to reflect and think. All in all, give yourself some time to hear and understand your own thoughts.

What would you say to those who think they can’t make a difference in the world? Is there a certain quote that you have found inspirational? 

“The most powerful contribution that you can make in your life can come from your deepest wound”. People should try to be there for other individuals. I want to be present for other people and listen to their stories. I know that by being present I can be a wonderful mom to my kids and a great friend to the people around me.

What do you think activism means?



I think everything starts with giving yourself the time and space to press pause. You should know what your really interested in. For example, what keep you up at night? What causes something to spark when you hear about it. Activism has to start somewhere and it starts with slowing down and thinking about what keeps you motivated and positive.

What is your vision of social change? 

I see a better world where all people can find their voice and are able to use it in ways to help a specific cause that matters to them.

How have you made a difference in the world? If you could make a bigger difference, what would that be? 

I am not sure if I have made a difference in the world. All I can say is that I try to live my life that is aligned with my personal values and to inspire others to discover themselves. More than making a difference, I look at it as paving the way for individuals to move forward because of my access to education, relationships, and resources. I want help other people make progress and succeed.

What does RISE mean to you?


Rise means surviving, thriving, empowerment, and change. A community is never isolated. You cannot rise alone. We can do more and be better TOGETHER.