Ballot City
Overland Park
Campaign Phone
9138931741
Personal Biography
Lifelong Kansan, born in Hutchinson and have lived in Overland Park for 20 years.
Education
University of Kansas (BA Political Science), Rockhurst University (MBA)
Community/Public Service
Overland Park Council Member (2019-2023), OP Civil Service Committee, United Way Board of Directors, Kansas Leadership Center Board of Directors.
Stong and safe neighborhoods, thoughtful development that benefits residents and businesses and responsible budgeting maximizing efficiency of the tax dollars residents pay.
Served one term as Council Member and Chaired the Finance, Administration Economic Development Committee. Have been engaged in the community for my entire adult life serving on boards of non-profits locally and state-wide. My career in banking and financial services has built solid competencies helping understand budgets, financials and complex development agreements. Most importantly, I was taught from a very early age to be of service to others and give expecting nothing thereof.
Your City Council is one of the closest parts of government to everyone in the community. Local government works to provide public safety, parks and quality of life amenities as well as the infrastructure everyone uses to facilitate their daily lives.
Ballot City
Overland Park
Campaign Phone
913-538-1479
Personal Biography
After graduating high school in Johnson County, I did what a lot of young Kansans do - I left. After 25 years away, I have done what I hope more people do - I came back. In 2016 I became a caregiver for my dad. In 2020, our family had to take away Dad’s car keys and move him to assisted living. He is now in memory care. Dad’s struggle to age in place with dignity is a big reason why I’ve decided to run for office. I am committed to making Overland Park a community for all ages and abilities.
Education
I’m a proud product of the Johnson County public school system. After high school graduation, I earned a bachelor’s degree in English from Eastern New Mexico University. I moved to Ohio and took graduate courses at the University of Cincinnati. I also hold a certificate in Teaching English as a Second or Foreign Language.
Community/Public Service
Since 2020, I have provided free English language lessons to students online. I have worked with students in the Kansas City region, as well as Vietnam and Brazil. I also dedicate time to mentoring early career nonprofit fundraising professionals.
According to United Community Services of Johnson County for the period 2014-2064, the County population that is over 65 years old is forecast to increase 309%. Is Overland Park ready for this major demographic shift? Three initiatives that are key to addressing today’s challenges and tomorrow’s needs are housing, transportation, and responsible development. We need a variety of housing options that meet people’s budgets at every stage of life. Our transportation system needs to prioritize the movement of people, not just cars. Finally, decisions about land use and development projects will determine the choices residents have about where they live, how they live, and how easy it is to get to the people and places we need and love.
My 30-year nonprofit career has been devoted to public service. I understand the constraints of limited budgets and the necessity for collaboration and consensus. Much of my work has focused on removing barriers to independence and self sufficiency for veterans, people with disabilities, and domestic violence survivors. Since 2021, I have worked for BikeWalkKC as the development and communications director. We are a nonprofit that promotes and advances safer and more accessible walking, biking, and transit infrastructure in the region. I serve on the stakeholder group for the Metcalf Corridor Fast & Frequent Transit project, the steering committee for the OP Wayfinding Master Plan, and the World Cup Marketing & Communications Subcommittee.
City council members determine the policies, legislation, and projects that are critical to making Overland Park a place where all residents are able to thrive at every stage of life. The office requires someone who is able to champion the needs of their ward while also working collaboratively with other council members and city staff for the good of the entire city. Overland Park is the largest city in Johnson County. What our city council does (or does not do) has the potential for ripple effects in neighboring municipalities. The office requires someone who can put ego aside and make decisions that balance the needs and opportunities of today with those of tomorrow.
