Why have you chosen to run for the CPRS State Board of Directors?
I am excited about the opportunity to continue to serve on the CPRS State Board because I am deeply committed to advancing the profession of parks and recreation. I believe that collaboration and strong leadership are key to achieving this mission and understand the CPRS State Board is a group of like-minded professionals and advocates with passion that I would be honored to continue to lead with to continue this charge.
I will support the mission by working with the state board to deliver and driving the CARD framework including taking efforts to connect our community, advocating for the vitality of parks and recreation, ensure resources are available and valued, and develop our members through our Pledge for Edge. I will also continue to champion the creation of the board best practices, and support the Board 100 Awards and the Equity Task Force we will carry on this mission.
I am particularly eager to use my tenacity and dedication to serve the leaders and boards of Districts 4, 5, and 6. I recognize the unique challenges and opportunities facing these districts, and I am dedicated to providing the guidance and support needed to help them continue to welcome, engage, and inspire their members. By building strong networks and ensuring that districts are well-resourced, I hope to help create lasting, meaningful impact in the communities they serve.
Together, we can strengthen the profession and ensure that parks and recreation continue to thrive as a vital component of community well-being and quality of life.
What personal attributes, skills, or knowledge would you bring to the State Board of Directors if elected?
I was once described as "tenacious" by an esteemed colleague and mentor for whom I had the privilege of serving on a local foundation in my hometown. That comment helped me recognize the value of my unique perspective and voice. It is this same tenacity that I have and will continue to bring to the State Board—driving vision with passion and persistence. I am committed to advancing the profession and ensuring that our collective goals are met with determination and a clear sense of purpose.
What is the greatest challenge our profession faces and how will you lead to address that challenge?
The greatest challenge facing our industry is the ongoing effort to build a strong, connected community of professionals who can strengthen our larger communities and create a sustainable foundation for services and programs that highlight and support the vital role our industry plays.
I am committed to being tenacious in my efforts to represent Region 2 and to drive the next phase of the Workforce Development Research Project. My goal is to engage Districts 4, 5, and 6 in building the future leaders of the industry by fostering connections in and across districts and sections by providing networking and development opportunities equip members with invaluable tools to carry out their work, and empower them to share the story of our work with pride.
Please share relevant leadership experiences outside of your work environment.
My fortune of serving CPRS and the recreation industry began in the early stages of my career, when I was working with the City of San Jose. I attended District 4 meetings and was delighted by the connections I made and the insight I gained so much so that I took on the role of Training Lead. I then was asked to run for Vice President and low and behold, I was voted in and lead the CPRS District 4 for two years as Vice President and President and completed my term by hosting the district’s Mini Conference. I also had the privilege to serve in the presidential series with the Bay Area Public Pool Operator’s Association, which culminated in hosting a reunion to honor both the association's legacy and its present. I am also proud to have been involved with the California Aquatics Management School from its inception 24 years ago.
Beyond these leadership positions, I have contributed significantly to conference planning and other initiative. I was on the local host team in San Jose and lead a committee host the Opening General Session and the Welcome Reception. I also planned the Opening General Session in recent years and am currently on the programming committee. Additionally, I am supporting Dr. Brandon Taylor’s Workforce Development Research Project.