Where are you originally from and how long have you been in DC?
I was born and raised in North Alabama. I have lived in a few different cities of Alabama, but prior to DC I was in Huntsville. During the pandemic, and unable to travel, I decided I needed a change of pace. After a lot of research, I landed on DC and have been here 2 ½ years and loving it! Roll Tide!
Please summarize in a short paragraph or two your interests and how they
relate to serving on the Board. What impact do you see yourself having?
Having served on two other boards in the past, when I moved to DC, it was very important to me to find another non-profit that was a good fit for me, my background, and my skills, as well as one with a mission I believed in. My professional background is primarily financial, having served as treasurer for a non-profit, worked for a bank, two government contractors, and now a global consulting firm.
As we all know, non-profits are notoriously looking for better ways to budget, be creative, and to make their limited funds go as far as possible to help the most people. I hope to use my knowledge in helping The DC Center do just that.
What is your favorite spot in DC and what do you do there?
The Kennedy Center! I am a big patron of the arts and love going to the symphony, opera, and theatre performances.
While symphony and opera music aren’t everyone’s idea of “easy listening,” it is my sanctuary. To close our eyes and let the music take you somewhere is what makes me feel safe and worry-free.
Who do you admire in the LGBTQ+ community?
Sam Smith. Like them, I am also a millennial, and I have had the great pleasure of following their career from the beginning, as well as seeing them in concert. I find every album to be relatable and easy to get lost in. I admire Sam’s ability to be their self, regardless of what others may think of them, as well as the courage it takes to put your vulnerability into words for the world to hear.
What are you most excited about regarding the future of the DC Center?
The new location of the DC Center. I am very excited about the future of how the DC Center will grow and strengthen their partnerships, relationships, and influence in the LGBTQ+ community it serves.