Professional Background
I began my career as a speech-language pathologist but soon transitioned to early childhood special education to spend more meaningful time with students. This shift allowed me to blend my expertise in speech and language with a passion for literacy and a deep commitment to helping young children find their voice. After 25+ years in the classroom, I now serve as an AAC consultant, specializing in innovative implementation systems that draw on cutting-edge professional learning frameworks and dynamic service delivery models to build team and organizational capacity. My classroom experience grounds my focus on universal AAC supports and practical, targeted strategies. With over 40 years in the field, I share my passion and knowledge through national and international conferences, teaching, writing, and ongoing collaboration with professionals across disciplines.

Passion for AAC
My passion for supporting individuals with complex communication needs began when I was just six years old. I was staying at a friend’s house when we played the game Password with their cousin—a girl who had a severe stutter and blocked on nearly every syllable. As I watched her struggle to express even the simplest thoughts, something shifted in me. On the way home, I told my family with quiet certainty, “I’m going to help people who can’t talk.” That impression still resonates with me. Years later, as I stepped into the field of speech-language pathology, I met children who couldn’t speak at all—children whose thoughts, feelings, and ideas were locked inside. And I knew I had found my calling. Supporting those who are non-speaking didn’t just become a career—it became a lifelong pursuit. I am endlessly curious, always learning, constantly asking hard questions, and pushing for better. Because communication and literacy aren’t just skills—they are how we connect, how we understand each other, and how we are truly known.

Fun Fact
For as long as I can remember, I’ve been in love with stories. As a child, I didn’t just read books—I lived them. I rode alongside heroes, solved mysteries, and wandered through enchanted worlds, all from the comfort of my favorite reading spot. But when I married my husband, Tim, I quickly realized that real life could be just as adventurous as the pages of any novel. Now, my chapters are filled with wild, unforgettable moments: wilderness camping under the stars, squeezing through narrow cave passages (yes—while hundreds of bats flew right at me!), and sea kayaking in our 21-foot double kayak, usually arriving at campsites ahead of the pack. I still find joy in the quiet, simple moments—soaking up the sun, listening to the gentle lapping of water—but now they come as part of a story I get to co-write every day. And yes, I still read. But now, life writes a pretty good sequel.