About Me

When I moved to Livermore I found my forever home. My career brought me to the area when I began teaching culinary skills at a local continuation high school. I was embraced and welcomed here, so much so that the former Mayor presided over my wedding. I feel blessed for my neighbors, friends, and family in Livermore. Having the opportunity to help my students develop life and work skills while getting to live in such an awesome community has been a dream come true. I have been doing all I can while serving on City Council to give back to all of you for your kindness to me.
 
​My life has had its shares of ups and downs, I was born on MediCal in a small town connected to a big city. I really struggled through school but my parents were supportive and helped me get through. After graduating university I held a variety of jobs before I returned to school, got a culinary degree, ran a catering kitchen, and later became a teacher. 
 
My first teaching job was at the San Jose Job Corps. It was both a challenging and rewarding job. The Job Corps students have their whole lives in front of them, but every other option has failed them. The Job Corps students want one last chance before ending up on the streets or worse. The turmoil my students faced outside of class is hard for most people to imagine. My goal each day was to create a safe space for them to work and thrive in my class and the reward of seeing my students find jobs, housing, and a future was humbling. I was inspired by the Job Corps students, and it was an emotional decision to leave, but finding a spot at Village High School I was again able to work with students where I have the privilege of supporting our youth who have lost their way, to find a better path forward.