First-generation graduate with a doctorate in education, 8 years on Leander ISD board, nonprofit leader for single moms and their children, former college professor, student-parent coalition partner.
Texas needs a workforce of technicians, nurses and other professional trades; ACC can produce it. My career focus is bridging schools, employers, and communities to create pathways for students. As an ACC ambassador, I will partner with employers to create new career partnerships while responsibly stewarding taxpayer dollars, enabling ACC to continue free tuition and pursue education innovation.
Enrollment alone is not success. A degree, certification, university transfer, or a better job is. Students rarely leave college because of classroom struggles. They leave because their car broke down, childcare fell through, or they had to work to put food on the table. I will prioritize flexible pathways, community partnerships, dual-credit offerings and paid apprenticeships.
Free tuition is a critical investment in Central Texas. The state set funding criteria for colleges based on student completion rates. ACC met those targets, but the State is not fulfilling its promise. I will advocate at the Legislature on behalf of ACC and students needing the most support. I also will be disciplined with the budget, pursue philanthropic support and partner with employers.
With every new technology, some people benefit from access and investment while others get left behind. AI is the newest technology, and ACC must ensure equitable access and balance AI teaching and use with humanity, care, and critical thinking. That is how we prepare students for the jobs of today and the workforce of tomorrow. That is how we make sure no student gets left behind.
I have served 6 years as an ACC Trustee, supporting students and overseeing a ~$600M balanced budget. My background in tech, consulting, and public policy brings fiscal discipline and innovation.
I am constantly taking in information from the private sector, residents, students, all levels of government, and experts in education to inform my understanding of in-demand jobs in our region. I prioritize creating educational pathways and partnerships with employers that allow our students to develop the skills they need to work in fields that pay them enough to live in Central Texas.
I will maintain a balanced budget while working to expand free tuition. I will stay focused on ACC’s priorities of increasing graduation and transfer rates, developing in-demand workforce skills, and supporting the whole student through access to food, mental health support, childcare, etc. I will empower students with tech skills that put people first.
Free tuition grows revenue since Texas now funds colleges based on graduation and transfer rates. The 2024 free tuition pilot significantly increased enrollment, and those students stay enrolled at higher rates. ACC must also scrutinize operations and spending. I will identify areas to reduce costs and opportunities to increase revenue, and continue advocating for funding and student support.
The cost of college is the number one barrier to obtaining an education according to our students. But it is not the only barrier. Identifying ways to support the whole student is a priority, including food insecurity, access to emergency funds, mental health support, transportation, and childcare.
