I grew up in Lafayette, graduating from Jefferson High School in 2003. After graduation, I studied at Amherst College and later the University of Tuebingen, where I began teaching English and American Studies. In 2016 I earned a PhD in Cultural Studies and returned to Lafayette for good. I am now a lecturer at Purdue, where I work with international students and scholars. Beyond my professional work, I am deeply involved in community organizations from Greater Lafayette Immigrant Allies and the Lafayette Urban Ministry Immigration Clinic to the League of Women Voters of Greater Lafayette. I also have two small children who will attend Lafayette schools in just a couple of years. I am passionate about making Greater Lafayette a welcoming place where everyone can thrive and belong.