Hello, it’s nice to meet you.

From my roots in rural Illinois, I was raised primarily by my mother and grandparents, whose influence has been instrumental in shaping my adult life. While my parents were young when I was born, this afforded me unique opportunities, including close relationships with four great-grandparents and the chance to watch my younger cousins grow up. My paternal grandparents’ origins in Western New York have fostered strong ties with extended family there, prompting annual visits. This large family has provided an unwavering support system throughout my life, navigating various challenges. As the eldest among my cousins and siblings, I’ve developed a strong sense of responsibility, motivating me to serve as a positive role model.

Childhood memories include frequent visits to my grandmas, cherished moments with my mother, and spending time with my cousins. I was an active child, participating in dance, swim team, softball, and soccer. At age eight, my mother remarried, followed by my father’s remarriage a few years later. These unions expanded my family with three step-siblings and eventually, two half-siblings. My mother’s remarriage also prompted a move to a neighboring school district.

During middle school, I engaged in numerous extracurricular activities, including a sewing club that instilled valuable skills I still utilize. I also joined the school volleyball team, continued playing softball and swimming, and in eighth grade, I returned to my original school district, living with my grandparents to pursue enhanced educational opportunities. However, as I approached high school, I began experiencing leg issues. An orthopedic surgeon diagnosed internally rotated femurs and recommended corrective surgery. The extensive recovery period led me to discontinue sports, but I discovered CrossFit, which became a huge passion for me while I was in high school. After two years of recovery, CrossFit helped me rebuild my strength, confidence, and physical well-being. My high school years were also filled with involvement in student council, FFA, Spanish club, art club, and Big Brothers Big Sisters, alongside two part-time jobs as a lifeguard/swim instructor at the local YMCA and a daycare provider—ironically, the same daycare I had attended as a child.

After high school, I embarked on a college search that ultimately led me to Southwestern Illinois College (SWIC) in Belleville, IL. Initially enrolled in the Physical Therapist Assistant program, I later transitioned to general studies with a business emphasis. The onset of the COVID-19 pandemic prompted a move back home to complete my associate's degree at John Wood Community College before transferring to Iowa State University. At Iowa State, I discovered my true passion for business, particularly helping organizations achieve results and navigate challenges. My time there was transformative. Being financially independent while pursuing my degree not only taught me how to balance multiple responsibilities but also instilled in me resilience and problem-solving skills that continue to shape my life today. As a first-generation college graduate, I have gained invaluable experiences and insights that extend beyond the classroom, enabling me to adapt and thrive in diverse environments. These skills, combined with the knowledge I gained in my work experience, continue to guide my personal and professional journey as I embrace new opportunities and challenges ahead.