About Me
I’m a criminal justice researcher and strategist deeply committed to advancing reforms that create a more equitable and responsive justice system. My academic and professional journey has been shaped by lived experience, graduate training, and leadership roles at the intersection of public policy and community advocacy.
I recently completed a Master of Arts in Criminal Justice with a concentration in Criminology from Arizona State University, where I focused on restorative justice, youth intervention models, and data-informed community engagement strategies. But long before my academic path began, I was already immersed in this work — advocating for fairness, amplifying marginalized voices, and mentoring those facing systemic barriers.
Throughout my career, I’ve served on municipal commissions, developed mentorship programs for at-risk youth, and led initiatives designed to build trust between communities and institutions. In 2021, I was honored with the Special Recognition Crystal Award from the City of East Lansing for my work on the Human Rights Commission and police oversight study.
My current work continues to explore meaningful solutions to complex challenges, with a focus on restorative justice, public trust, and policy reform rooted in transparency, accountability, and community participation. As I pursue my doctorate, I remain grounded in a core belief: justice must be informed by those most affected, and led by people committed to lasting change.
My Leadership Style
To me, leadership is about action, integrity, and accountability — not just in words but in how we show up daily. I believe in leading by example and modeling the values I want to see in institutions, communities, and the people around me. Whether mentoring a young person, chairing a commission, or conducting research, I strive to be consistent, ethical, and present. My leadership is rooted in both personal experience and professional purpose.
I’m driven by a commitment to equity, a focus on outcomes, and a deep respect for collaboration. I’ve led nonprofit organizations, civic reform efforts, and youth-centered initiatives, always with a people-first approach. I value strategy and structure but never lose sight of empathy and trust.
Strong leadership means listening when it matters, acting when it counts, and creating spaces where others can grow and lead. I embrace innovation, welcome new ideas, and remain grounded in shared purpose.
Leadership, to me, is about:
- Leading by example with humility and consistency
- Mobilizing others toward purpose
- Creating frameworks for equity and inclusion
- Turning insight into action