Be Like Water - Water is fluid, adaptable, and vital

 I was born in Kansas, but Colorado has been home for the majority of my life. Having lived in six different states, I can say that both Illinois and Colorado hold a special place in my heart — but I’m always excited to explore new places and discover even more favorites along the way!

My journey toward education and technology wasn’t always a straight path. I started college with dreams of becoming an engineer, but life had other plans. I pivoted into teaching, then refocused on technology, which led me to earn two Bachelor’s degrees — one in Elementary Education from the University of Dayton and the other in Management Information Systems from Mississippi State University.

After completing my degrees, I moved to Illinois, where I not only expanded my professional horizons but also gained an extended family, took up running, and even went skydiving! I’m proud to have run the Chicago Marathon twice, combining my love for running with raising funds for meaningful causes.

When I moved to Colorado, I became deeply involved in my community. I started volunteering with organizations like PMI, Toastmasters, school PTAs/PTOs, and Leadership Douglas County in Castle Rock. As part of the 2019 Leadership Douglas County class, I helped raise $26,000 to support SECOR Cares, benefiting countless families in need. Being part of such impactful work has been one of the most fulfilling experiences of my life.

I’ve learned that life is about embracing change, building connections, and giving back. Each chapter has brought me new opportunities to grow, and I look forward to what the future holds as I continue to explore, learn, and make a difference.

 in 2024, I had the honor of being a St. Jude Hero and ran the Bank of America Chicago Marathon for an incredible cause — raising $1,300 for St. Jude Children's Research Hospital. This race was extra special as I ran just a week before turning 49, marking it as my last marathon. It was a bittersweet yet empowering experience, knowing I was helping to fund life-saving research for children battling cancer, and I crossed that finish line with immense pride.

Back in 2006, I joined Team in Training to raise funds for The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society® (LLS). Training for the Chicago Marathon that year was no easy feat, especially with IT Band issues that challenged my body. But on my 31st birthday, I completed the marathon in under 7 hours with the unwavering support of my family and friends, and I raised an incredible $3,000 for LLS. It was a day filled with grit, determination, and the joy of knowing that my efforts were helping to fight blood cancers.

Both of these experiences have been more than just marathons to me — they’ve been journeys of personal growth, resilience, and the power of community.

 One day, a few coworkers tossed around the idea of skydiving – and naturally, we thought, why not? So, in 2006, along with family and friends, I took the plunge and jumped out of a plane! It was one of those wild, unforgettable moments. I pulled the parachute cord, and with the help of my expert tandem partner, I made a safe and smooth landing. 

The rush of adrenaline, the incredible views, and the sense of pure adventure made it an experience I’ll never forget. Definitely a highlight of stepping out of my comfort zone and embracing life’s most thrilling moments!