Candidate's Statement: 

Hello, NDEO family! Being on the NDEO Board the last three years has been a tremendous growth opportunity for me and I have learned so much about governance, strategic alignment, and how thoughtful leadership can expand access to meaningful, student-centered dance education experiences across diverse communities. Thank you for trusting me in this role previously and I look forward to the chance to hopefully continue.

My vision to connect the field three years ago was to engage more deeply with the state affiliates in my region. Since then, I have built meaningful relationships with dance professionals in several other states besides my own. I’m also currently serving on the State Affiliate Committee for NDEO, examining how to strengthen relationships between State Affiliates and NDEO, provide more local access and reciprocal support between organizations. 

Since being on the NDEO Board, I have moved into a new leadership position at my school. I also, within the last year, completed a Certificate in School Management & Leadership (Harvard, 2026). I’m proud of this recent, personal growth and excited for what’s next. Leadership is something I approach thoughtfully and have worked diligently to cultivate with care. I have progressed into this new stage of my career with a desire to make a larger impact, beyond my classroom. 

My experience over the past three years on the NDEO Board has reinforced my belief that the most effective work happens in environments grounded in trust, support, and a genuine sense of belonging. I have worked intentionally to contribute to and help sustain that kind of culture—through authentic relationships, clear and timely communication, and a consistent commitment to accountability, follow-through, and growth.

During my tenure, I have deepened my engagement with the operational structures that support NDEO’s mission, including the national search for a new ED/CEO, policy work, and the advancement of long-term strategic initiatives. My professional background has continued to inform this work, particularly my experience expanding and strengthening programs through thoughtful planning, responsible financial management, and strategic advocacy for resources.

I bring a demonstrated record of moving ideas into action. Most recently I revived our Fine Arts department archival system and created/facilitated a student leadership committee in Fine Arts at my school. Throughout my career, I have launched new performance opportunities, developed courses to better serve evolving student needs, and built aligned K–12 program structures. I have also led initiatives that extend beyond my own institution, including founding a regional dance festival to connect schools and professionals, and successfully advocating for significant facility improvements to enhance student learning environments.

This approach to leadership—proactive, mission-driven, and grounded in care for both people and programs—has guided my contributions to the Board. I remain committed to this work and would be honored to continue serving the NDEO community with the same level of dedication, perspective, and forward-thinking leadership.