About Me
When I moved to San Luis Obispo over 25 years ago to study political science at Cal Poly, I felt a strong and immediate connection to the place that has since become my home. After graduating with a degree in political science and a minor in women’s studies, I moved to Seattle to earn a Master’s of Public Administration from the University of Washington. I also served in the Peace Corps, and currently work for the County of San Luis Obispo Public Health Department.
I moved back to San Luis Obispo in 2001 and now live here with my husband, Jonathan, our 14-year-old son, Payton and our dog, Leo. Because this place is so special to me, I feel committed to making it the best it can be — a place that is welcoming and safe for all, affordable for our families, and a place that encourages and celebrates health.
As a working mom, I understand the struggles of parenting and trying to pay the bills, made even more difficult during these past two years, than before the pandemic. Affordable childcare (or childcare at all) is scarce. So is affordable housing for many. We need to fix that. My son rides his bike to school and we ride and walk frequently as a family to reduce our carbon footprint. I want all of us to feel safe doing that on safe roads and sidewalks.
A little more about me…in my spare time, I enjoy running, cycling and being outdoors. And, I enjoy those most when doing them with my family or community. Nothing beats a good run or hike with friends in the local open space or ride down to Pismo for a big, gooey cinnamon roll! I love to travel and backpack too. But at the end of a trip, I love that I get to come home to SLO… a beautiful place, but one whose real beauty is in the people and the community we continue to create together.
Professional and Volunteer Experience
I have always been driven by a sense of service. I’ve spent my professional career in nonprofits and in government, including 20 years managing programs for the San Luis Obispo County Public Health Department. Currently, I am a division manager responsible for programs aimed at improving the health status of local residents. Previously, I managed the county’s Pandemic and Public Health Emergency Planning Program, HIV prevention and education programs, and case management programs for people with HIV. I also served as a spokesperson for the Public Health Department during the COVID-19 pandemic.
I was unanimously appointed to the City Council in October 2021 by my fellow council members after serving for over a year on the planning commission. I have also served as an elected trustee on the county’s pension board for over three years and worked and volunteered with Big Brothers Big Sisters, AYSO, local schools, and a variety of local organizations and programs. I’m a founder and Lead Organizer for Women in the Pipeline, whose mission is to prepare and encourage women to run for office.
