Education
Bachelor's in Education, UNL | Master's in Audiology, Univ of KS | Doctorate in Audiology, Univ of Florida-Gainesville
Current Public Office, dates
Learning Community of Douglas and Sarpy County Coordinating Council, Subdistrict 1, appointed 2023
Volunteer experience
Past President, Nebraska Speech Hearing Language Association. Former Board Member, Norfolk Area Chamber of Commerce. Former Board Member, Norfolk Area United Way. Omaha Together One Community (OTOC), St Pius X Catholic Church.
On the Learning Community Council, I have worked with my colleagues to address achievement gaps in our students’ education. I believe that continuing to close achievement gaps and ensuring equal opportunity is my top concern. We need to uplift our public schools to a point where they’re able to provide the resources, services, and quality of education that our community needs. Our schools have students with varying needs; we need to be prepared to meet them. I will ensure we are providing proper state funding and reducing reliance on property tax levies at the local level as the primary source of income. If elected, I will always keep public dollars with our public schools and be a champion for our students and teachers.
Our workers are our best economic drivers. Our economy does well when everyone is able to afford the basic necessities and not only survive, but thrive. Policies that create a strong quality of life, like reducing tax burdens, reducing the cost of everyday goods, and ensuring that Nebraskans have affordable health insurance are key to a strong Nebraska economy. Also, investments in college scholarships and grants provide a huge return on investment for our state. A strong education is the great equalizer and expands economic opportunity. I will build coalitions with elected officials and experts to spur economic growth that strengthens our middle class and our hard-working people.
I spent all of my childhood on a farm in northeast Nebraska. I started a small business in Norfolk and was very involved in the local Chamber of Commerce. I know what life in rural Nebraska looks like, and I still have many friends and family members in that part of the state. I want to make sure that the Legislature takes the right steps for all Nebraskans - and that’s why I am a firm supporter of local control. The Legislature should allocate resources and let local governments (like the counties, cities, and villages) make the right choice for themselves. Solutions for Omaha won’t work in Plainview or Wayne - but the financial need still remains for all of the state. I will be a voice for all Nebraskans and listen to everyone’s needs.
State Senators are trusted with making choices on behalf of their constituents and uplifting their voice. I look up to how Senator DeBoer and her office have handled constituent feedback, incorporated that feedback into legislation, and carried those stories onto the floor of the Legislature. I am proud to be endorsed by Wendy DeBoer because I will provide the same transparency and accessibility. I seek to emulate that availability and openness to my constituents while bringing my personal and professional background to every decision I make in the Legislature. It’s important to have regular town halls for accountability. I’m ready to respect and protect the will of the voters and listen to all Nebraskans.
Education
Doctor of Business Administration, Leadership Cognate
Current Public Office, dates
N/A
Past Public Office, dates held
N/A
Military experience
N/A
Volunteer experience
Board Member, Alzheimer's Association Nebraska Chapter, UNMC Board of Counselors, Stephen Center meal service, 9/11 Memorial flag planter, Salvation Army Bell Ringer
My top concern is ensuring every Nebraska student has access to a high-quality education that prepares them for the future. Because communities and students have different needs, I believe solutions should involve listening to educators, parents, and local leaders while supporting strong teachers and local flexibility.
Economic development grows when government creates an environment where businesses and entrepreneurs can succeed. Reducing unnecessary regulatory barriers, supporting workforce development, and encouraging collaboration between business, education, and communities helps create opportunity and strengthen Nebraska’s economy.
Nebraska’s rural and urban communities both play vital roles in our state’s success. Because their needs can differ, I believe policy decisions should be guided by listening to communities and supporting balanced solutions rather than a one-size-fits-all approach.
A state senator’s role is to represent the people of their district with integrity and thoughtful judgment. Staying engaged with residents of District 10 and listening to their perspectives helps ensure decisions remain grounded in the real experiences of the people we serve.
