I was born and raised in Willard, Ohio, a small blue collar, non-union factory town of about 6,500 people. Family, Church, and Sports (in that order) were king in Willard and played a large role in the individual I am today. Growing up in a town that already was at a disadvantage when compared to larger metropolitan areas instilled a huge competitive drive in me, a drive that still burns to this very day. It was natural that I became attracted to politics at an early age as I saw it as a sport- winners and losers in the ultimate competition for who gets to be in power. It was an honor that the Willard American Legion chose me to attend the Buckeye Boys State program in 1995. At Boys State, I was elected Lieutenant Governor by my peers, furthering my infatuation with government.
Since 1996, I have served numerous campaigns and government entities in various capacities. I am extremely proud of my 9.5 years teaching high school students government and economics in North Carolina where the students taught me more than I could ever impart on them.
I am currently the Manager of Political Engagement with the NC Nurses Association and reside in the Cameron Park neighborhood of Raleigh, NC. I will soon embark on a new opportunity in the Government Affairs Department with the Virginia School Boards Association.
In my spare time, I enjoy sports, exercise, cooking, reading, and spending time with my daughter.