How/Why do you want to change the world? 

I want to change the world by doing all I can to make it a more compassionate and empathetic place for any individual. Too often a person‚‘s story, identity or life path is held against them instead of celebrated. I want to celebrate what makes us who we are. Our world is on the brink of monumental and generational change, I hope to play a part in making this new version of life more equitable and inclusive for all. The saying ‚“leave the world better then you found it‚“ inspires my work and passion daily, and I am excited to one day look back and feel I did this.

What are you proud to have been involved with at University of Oregon? 

My involvement with Camp Kesem at the University of Oregon will always hold such a special place in my heart. Camp Kesem is a nonprofit that supports children through and beyond their parents cancer, yet it does so much more. Through my time as a general volunteer, development coordinator and now director, I have learned more about myself, my community and empowering others than I would have imagined. Whether it be at the trainings, board meetings or camp itself, I am forever in awe by my peers who go above and beyond to support and connect with kids and families going through unimaginable pain.

Who is your biggest role model and why? 

My biggest role model is my mom, Shauna. From such an early age, she has shown me the importance of caring for others as I do myself and  never shying away from a challenge. She was that mom that could juggle a million responsibilities while making each of her friends, my sisters and I’s peers and her kids feel seen, heard and special. Her drive to better the world around her whether it be as a PTO member, coach for anything my sisters and I wanted to do or by being a supportive friend, instilled in me the values I am so grateful to hold as we enter a new time in our world. She has cheered me on and supported me in everything I’ve ever wanted to do and I will never be able to say thank you enough.

What are your goals after college? 

I hope to work for a nonprofit that focuses on empowering youth and teens through community-focused programs while working towards a Masters of Social Work. In ten years from now, I hope to have helped teens feel validated and seen as who they are. My time at UO has opened my eyes to the endless possibilities to help communities and I can‚‘t wait to apply my coursework to a career in supporting others as people have done for me.