Get to Know Me
Welcome! My journey has been diverse and dynamic, shaped by the landscapes I've called home. Growing up in rural Ohio amidst corn fields and country roads laid the foundation of my connection to nature. Since then, I've lived in various places, including mining towns Placerville, Nevada City, and Santa Cruz, where I've immersed myself in vibrant communities and stunning natural landscapes for the past sixteen years. My academic and athletic pursuits led me to Burlington, Vermont, where I studied Biology and ran with the Catamounts.
Being the perpetual new kid at school taught me humility and adaptability, which have become pillars of my identity, enabling me to easily make connections and embrace diversity.
Trails became my sanctuary amidst constant change. This deep appreciation for the environment fuels my commitment to its preservation and accessibility for all. I believe that a connection to nature is paramount for instilling care for it, and I'm dedicated to ensuring everyone has the opportunity to enjoy it if they want to.
I'm excited to connect with like-minded individuals and organizations who share my passion for nature, community, and collective action. Together, let's explore how we can make a positive impact on the world around us.
Current Projects
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As the Senior Community Engagement Manager, I oversee a team of incredibly thoughtful people responsible for organizing all programs, events, and engagement initiatives for the organization. Together with community feedback, I develop and execute public programming aimed at serving our entire community.
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As a member of the organization's Board of Directors, my primary responsibility is to serve as the project manager for a major campaign focused on advocating for, designing, funding, and constructing essential access opportunities for the public to engage with the San Lorenzo River.
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I'm part of a small yet dynamic team working to raise over one million dollars to bring an accessible playground to Santa Cruz near Captiola Village.
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I’m serving on an Advisory Council Focus Group to develop California’s 2026 Statewide Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan (SCORP), a statewide plan that establishes grant priorities to address unmet needs for public outdoor recreation land throughout California.
This high-level plan will be presented to the Governor, Legislature, and other influential leaders. By adopting this SCORP, California maintains eligibility for federal Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF) grants.
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I am currently serving a 24-month position on SCPD Chief of Police Bernie Escalante’s Advisory Committee. The purpose of the committee is to give counsel, support, and guidance to the Chief of Police to improve transparency, police service, and fostering stronger relationships with the community the Santa Cruz Police Department serves.