Professional Background
I have the current privilege of being on the #TalkingAAC Board of Directors, but I kicked off my career in Washington state as a speech-language pathologist working intensely with people with autism and whole teams to help maximize language understanding and use! Over the next 15 years, I was deep in the trenches in Washington and Michigan, partnering with people to bring about the best conditions for successful communication. Since 2020, I'm thrilled to be an assistive technology consultant at Macomb ISD, spreading the love of inclusive design, AAC, and AT far and wide!

Passion for AAC
Funny story: my amazing mom, who was a paraprofessional, actually nudged me into this whole speech and language thing. Turns out, she saw something in me! I've always been a big fan of science, language, and, let's be real, chatting with cool people. Getting to work with incredible AAC users and their diverse teams has not only been hugely insightful but has also seriously fueled my passion for what I do. It’s been an incredible journey of learning and growing.

Fun Fact
If you know me, you know I'm a firm believer in the sheer power of music. It can support, motivate, unite, and teach – basically, it's magic! And yes, I absolutely will make up songs to fit almost any scenario. My husband and kids? They've learned to love (or at least tolerate!) my impromptu musical numbers, despite my subpar singing voice!