“What you are not changing, you are choosing.”
If I had to describe myself, it would be that I possess heartland grit with polish. I have never been afraid of physical labor and doing what needs to be done, however, I did follow a career path that has placed me mainly behind a desk, until recently. I received my bachelor of Science in Organizational Communication from Murray State University (2013) and Master of Business Administration and Human Resource Management from Bethel University (2022). I have always taken an interest in civic engagement, government, and organizational management. It all boils down to how to make things function better by asking what assets can be used more effectively, what skills make someone a better fit for a role, what policy or procedure is missing that will create clarity, how can we operate more efficiently? Although perfection is reserved for Jesus Christ our Lord, it does not hurt to strive for the best. To do so we must be results driven and not afraid of change.
My professional background has given me a wide range of industry exposure including non-profit, legal, healthcare, agriculture, manufacturing, and hospitality. Each of these experiences yielded skills and the ability to critically discern information with an equitable and open-mind. I utilize this daily as I manage residential renovation projects within the Charleston community, totaling 6 since 2020, with more lined up. In addition to giving old homes new life, I stay busy managing rental property and our generational family farm as the office administrator. Although I did not grow up in Mississippi County, I have a family legacy and have chosen to live and do business here. I want to see the cottage community of Charleston thrive!
I do not have a political background, so what made me decide to run for city council?
I was watching a TikTok of all things and it said, “WHAT YOU ARE NOT CHANGING, YOU ARE CHOOSING.” It punched me in the gut, that is absolutely true for all aspects of our lives. If there is something we are not satisfied with, that means it is up to us to take action to make it better, or by default we are choosing it. So, as a resident of Charleston I am putting forth my time, skills, and abilities to contribute to the improvement of our community. If we want better, we must do and be better! Think beyond “that’s how it’s always been done,” and you will see the untapped potential.