I first moved to Kentwood with my family in 1988. After graduating from East Kentwood High School, I received my degree in political science with a leadership minor from Central Michigan University.
My community service background has included chairing a Relay for Life team, serving on the board of directors for a for-profit business, and volunteering for Kentwood Band and Orchestra Boosters, Grand Rapids Young Professionals, Local First of West Michigan, and the West Michigan Environmental Action Council. In 2010, I was unanimously elected to lead West Michigan's largest council of an international Christian service organization; under my leadership, the council greatly increased our charitable support while still balancing its budget during the worst recession in decades.
My professional background centers around marketing and communications, with a focus on writing and digital media. I've spearheaded or contributed to numerous communications efforts that have exceeded lofty goals. With my help, a nationwide organization exceeded three multi-million-dollar quarterly fundraising goals. I also helped a long-standing local nonprofit increase its contributions and grants by 74% year-over-year.
In addition, I've worked in a number of public-facing jobs, including as a bartender, as an election poll worker, and as a seasonal retail employee at Woodland Mall. I understand the struggles that ordinary people have faced because I've faced them myself.
I enjoy reading; nature; cheering for the CMU Chippewas; and walking my yellow lab, Phoebe, along the East-West Trail.