Once I aged into my 40’s, I realized I had navigated a career for about 20 years, had years of experience as a wife and mother, and now had more time to be involved in community projects and nonprofits as my children gained more independence. I had shifted into a much wiser woman, therefore, giving myself permission to focus more on my own needs and desires.
I recently retired from 30 years as a school teacher. That experience led me to join the Board of Directors for the nonprofit, Arizona Association for Gifted & Talented, where I serve as the Co-Chair for the Parent Engagement Task Force and Chair the annual Parents Institute. I serve the Phoenix community through my participation in the Junior League of Phoenix. Additionally, I am an Adjunct Faculty member at Rio Salado College in the Teacher Residence Program and founded a parent.
In the next decade, I aspire to… 1. Continue to provide mentorship to educators and parents so that children are taught social and emotional tools enabling them to be joyful, independent thinkers and embrace life confidently. 2. Learn more about the world’s cultures, history, customs, and people through travel and opportunities to connect in service with them.
When I saw my portraits for the first time, I felt… PROUD! My photos were timed in celebration of my 55th birthday. They represent MY STORY. Over the past few years, I was able to harness my mindset and shift how I felt about myself, accomplish things I never believed I was ready for, and discovered my unique, inner beauty through releasing expectations of others towards me and living more authentically.