I was at Open from 2004 to 2015. I worked with Open Meadow Career Services, counseling young adults about careers and post-secondary opportunities. I also worked with Open’s Equity Team as a co-Chair.

When I came to Open, I was in the midst of a professional speaking career, writing a motivational book. I came to Open (Meadow) to find an audience to empower and pilot my messages before taking them on tour. My plan was just to stay 2 years. I ended up staying 10!

I wanted to join the Open community because of the students, the love, and the support of the advocates. It was also Open’s commitment to equity and diversity. One of the most impactful positions I held was with the organization’s Equity Team. I gained clarity of my passion for Equity and Inclusion work. I also gained realtionships with both students and staff that I still cherish.

Today, I am the Director of the office of Equity and Multicultural Services for the state of Oregon. I help Oregon DHS become more equitable, accessible, and racially just. My experience as co-chair of the Equity Team at Open Meadow has greatly influenced how I have formed and facilitated equity teams across the state today.