Homegrown Representation. Working Class Values.

I was born and raised in Whatcom County, a student in Bellingham, Lynden and Meridian Public Schools. Like most folks around here, I spent summers growing up working agricultural labor, either pruning or picking berries in the field or working crew line at a berry processing plant. In high school I then worked at the Ferndale Grocery Outlet, my initial community and customer service experience, and where I got to meet a lot of my neighbors for the first time. In 2018, I graduated from Meridian Senior High School and simultaneously received my Associates from Whatcom Community College, through the Running Start program.

In 2021, I graduated from Washington State University - Go Cougs! In undergrad, I lobbied the state legislature for higher education access to students in low-income and rural communities, representing WSU Pullman. In coordinating several student lobby days, I was inspired, witnessing in real-time, the impact a collective voice has to effect real change. I was proud to lead successful lobbying efforts for student services and activities fee transparency from university administration; expansion of the Washington College Grant funding and eligibility; and creating a state loan program for students excluded from receiving federal aid.

I have devoted my career and education to public service and giving back to my community. I’ve worked as a court clerk in Whatcom County Superior Court and currently work at the Washington State Legislature. My experience in state government has given me a deep understanding of issues directly impacting Washingtonians and the tools to find realistic recourse and resolution. My roots in rural Whatcom County provides me with an understanding of community-specific issues, such as the importance of our agricultural industry. My working class background makes me an advocate for fair labor practices and living wages for working families. This is important for a local policymaker, because the creation of jobs to stimulate our economy should never come at the expense of worker health and safety.