I am a recent Graduate Student from the University of Kentucky, where I graduated with my Master of Social Work and Graduate Certificates in Clinical Social Work and Trauma-Informed Practice. My academic journey is built on a strong foundation of social impact, clinical support, and behavioral analysis, which began during my undergraduate studies at St. Olaf College. There, I earned a Bachelor of Arts in Social Work and Law, Order, and the Criminal Mind (Individual Major), driven by a passion for advancing the well-being of vulnerable populations, especially children and individuals with disabilities.
Throughout my career and education, I have developed a deep commitment to advocating for those who are often marginalized. This drive is informed by my years of direct experience working with vulnerable groups, witnessing their resilience, and understanding their unique challenges. My goal is to be a voice for the voiceless, challenge societal structures that perpetuate discrimination, and support individuals and families in need of empowerment and advocacy.
I am currently working full-time as a Direct Support Professional (DSP) in Adult Services at Helping Hand, where I provide personalized assistance, track progress, and oversee programming designed to support participants' growth and well-being. This role has deepened my commitment to social work and trauma-informed practices while allowing me to apply my academic learning in real-world settings.
In addition to my work as a DSP, I have held a range of roles that have shaped my professional development, including an Undergraduate Legal Research Intern at the US Court of Appeals for the Tenth Circuit, a Mental Health Equity Intern at The Healing House, and an independent researcher exploring the “Process of Reporting Suspected Abuse in Vulnerable Populations.” I have also gained valuable experience in customer service and interpersonal communication through roles in the hospitality industry, further reinforcing my ability to connect with and support clients.
I am eager to continue expanding my expertise in clinical work, trauma-informed care, and behavioral analysis.
Awards & Honors:
Omicron Delta Kappa National Leadership Society Spring 2025
Alpha Phi Social Work Honor Society Spring 2025
Ken Bonde Award for Individual Majors Spring 2024
Social Work Departmental Distinction Spring 2024
Dean's List Fall 2023
Most Valuable Member for Alpha Phi Omega Fall 2023
Outstanding Membership for Alpha Phi Omega Fall 2023
Excellent Member for Alpha Phi Omega Spring 2023
Band Directors Award for Brother Rice & Mother McAuley Band
Semi-Finalist for Posse Foundation
Project College Scholar at HighSight Project College
La Société Honoraire de Français at Mother McAuley Liberal Arts High School
Haerther Scholar at Daniel P. Haerther Charitable Trust Fall
National Junior Honor Society at Hamlin Upper-Grade Center
My Promise, My Faith at Girl Scouts
Bronze Award at Girl Scouts
Beeson Scholar at Big Shoulders Fund