“Hope is a form of planning” ~ G. Steinem

I grew up on the Near East Side of Indianapolis amidst economic precarity, though surrounded by the stability of my large, wacky, loving family. With trust and a good amount of determination, I became a working actor at the age of 18, when I received my first paycheck from Puppets and Players, the Children’s Theatre touring arm of Indiana University Purdue University at Indianapolis (IUPUI). Since then, my central ambition has been to utilize the power of the fine and performing arts - producing, directing, teaching and acting - to lift up every voice.

Administrating. As an administrator, I work to foster an environment where team members have the opportunity to excel, and invest myself completely in the power of ensemble + data. Yes, the tools are different, but the goals are the same. I am data driven, and bold, willing to try new tactics to earn new results. A spreadsheet tells a story. Fundraising presents a brand new way to support the art that is central to the success of the organizations that I serve. My work with museums, theatres, symphonies, zoos, higher education and rock musicians has gifted me with an understanding of inner-workings of diverse NPO’s and the midsets behind each.

Teaching. I don't want students to think of themselves as part of a machine - I want them to aspire to do the work that fills their spirits with joy, I want them to invent the machines - whether actual machines or new systems of doing and being. I want students to know that this world is for them, not that they must find a way to fit into this world. Even before the pandemic began corroding our education systems - students and teachers were being asked to focus more on results than on a joint experience of gaining knowledge. This isn’t fair and I am seeking solutions, every day. While teaching theatre, I am transferring tools that will endure with the engaged pupil - through their art and in their lives. Communication teaches empathy. Voice study teaches courage and poise. Artistic discipline teaches mutual respect and patience. This relatively small platform - visual and performing arts – opens doors for respect, humility and communion. Simply put: The work of teaching performing arts is essential to the success of humanity.

Directing and Acting. In both directing and performing, preparation is key and having a strong technique is the way to ensure. In my formative years as a professional actor, I applied the Stanislavskian techniques learned while studying at my alma mater, Ball State University’s Department of Theatre and Dance. Because I was fortunate enough to study with Martha Jacobs (Author of A Meisner Legacy [2012]) from 1994 to 1996, my training is firmly rooted in the Neighborhood Playhouse Technique of Sanford Meisner. My strongest Voice influence is Kristin Linklater, with a side of Edith Skinner and Cicely Berry. Alexander Technique and Vinyasa Yoga are central to my Movement philosophy. Finally, I am well-versed in the games and improvisational techniques and applications of Viola Spolin and Augusto Boal

Now a mom of an 11 year old with a professional musician spouse, I find that my mission when I was an 18 year old remains essentially the same.