Q: What was your inspiration to become a prominent female leader in the community, and how do you pay that forward?

A: It really developed over time through my work with students and teachers. Spending my entire career in the same district has made it personal for me. These are people and relationships I genuinely care about.

I’ve also been influenced by strong women around me, including colleagues, mentors, and even students, who showed me what it looks like to lead with both strength and empathy. That balance has always stayed with me.

Paying it forward is something I think about every day. For me, it’s in the small, consistent moments, supporting a teacher who is finding their voice, encouraging a student to take a risk, or mentoring future administrators. I try to be the kind of leader who creates space for others to grow and feel confident stepping into their own leadership.

Q: How do you think you help young girls build confidence and resilience?

A: It starts with helping them see themselves clearly and not just through the lens of grades or performance. I try to help girls recognize their strengths, speak up for themselves, and understand that their voice matters.

I also think it’s important to normalize struggle. So many girls put pressure on themselves to be perfect, and when something doesn’t go well, it can really impact their confidence. I try to reframe those moments as part of the process, not a reflection of their worth.

Just as important, I try to model it. Being honest about challenges, showing that confidence doesn’t mean having everything figured out, and demonstrating how to handle setbacks matter. Girls are always watching, and I want them to see that they can be strong, capable, and still be themselves.

Q: Do you have any other future aspirations as a female leader?

A: I’m really focused right now on the work I’m doing in my doctoral studies, especially around supporting the empowerment, confidence, and leadership of adolescent girls. That research is very personal to me and directly connected to the work I do every day in schools.

I’m also passionate about mentoring, both future administrators and educators. Supporting others as they step into leadership roles and find their voice is something I care deeply about.

In addition, my work in higher education has been incredibly meaningful. Being able to guide and support future teachers as they enter the profession allows me to have an impact beyond my own building.

For me, the goal is to keep growing in ways that allow me to support others, especially women and girls, in recognizing their strengths and leading with confidence.