Professional Background
I serve as an AAC Consultant on the Assistive Technology Team at the Muskegon Area Intermediate School District. My career has spanned more than two decades in special education, including roles as a speech-language pathologist, early interventionist, and consultant. These experiences have deepened my commitment to inclusive practices and fueled my passion for supporting individuals with complex communication needs—and the educators and families who walk alongside them.

Passion for AAC
What I love most about AAC is how it invites us to better understand human growth and development. I’m especially fascinated by how joint attention and engagement begin to take shape in our youngest learners, and I find such joy in learning about the communication partner strategies that help those beautiful connections grow. Coaching others to create rich, responsive communication environments is one of the most meaningful parts of my work.

Fun Fact
Outside of my professional life, I’m endlessly curious about all things “great apes” and have a soft spot for critters of just about every kind. I dream of one day owning (or more realistically, visiting) a sanctuary farm filled with goats, cows, and pigs. I cherish time spent traveling with my husband, Jamie, as much as I enjoy the simple comforts of home in Grand Haven. I’m also a proud and supportive auxiliary parent to my amazing young adult nieces—one of the greatest joys of my life.