Executive Director

Why do do this work? I appreciate the breadth of organizations UWSWO supports through our mission of improving the health, education, and financial stability of all residents of Coos and Curry Counties. I also have a passion for bringing community leaders together to solve complex challenges, and our collective impact work allows me to do just this.

One of your favorite things? I could easily spend hours in the garden – weeding is one of my favorite garden tasks!

Two fun facts about you? My partner and I spent 3.5 years traveling internationally and around the Pacific Northwest prior to relocating to Coos Bay in 2016. Now we live in an old farmhouse with the best cats in the world.

Executive Assistant

Why do you do this work? Our world needs more love and kindness for all. UWSWO supports many projects that promote that sentiment in many ways. I have always wanted our community to be healthy, strong, thriving and above all, SAFE! This is part of how I get to be the change for good!

One of your favorite things? I love dancing to live music and laughing so hard that it is difficult to breathe! Okay, I cheated that is 2 things, but they go well together.

Two fun facts about you? I once jumped out of a perfectly good airplane with a stranger strapped to my back while my friends and family laughed at my terror. I sing and dance anywhere there is music (dentist office, grocery store, restaurants, etc).

Every Child Coos Coordinator

Why do you do this work? My greatest accomplishment is breaking the generational barriers passed on through my family and being the parent I had always needed to my 3 girls. I also work for CASA and as a CASA volunteer to help advocate for children in care's best interests. I was also once a child in care. My mom nor us were given the help offered today. I want our kiddos to thrive, to help ensure they get the love and care they deserve. I want to help other parents get the chance to break those generational barriers, help them receive and utilize the tools to give their kiddos so they can lead a bright future.

Southern Oregon Coast Pride Director

Why do you do this work? Working for Southern Oregon Coast Pride has been an eight-year-long dream come true. My passion has always been community building, and it feels great to be doing this full-time. There are amazing people in this community who are doing good work both as individuals and as part of organizations, and it is great to be a part of that.

One of your favorite things? Continuing a family tradition of planning "mystery rides" for friends and family as a fun way of taking them on a birthday/celebratory excursion without telling them where we are going. All that I tell them is what to pack and how long we will be gone.

Two fun facts about you? The best concert of my life was the Indigo Girls with the Oregon Symphony. I love baking and don't do it nearly enough.

Every Child Curry Director

Why do you do this work? I am thrilled to partner with United Way in support of the goals and objectives for Every Child Curry County! I am passionate about serving the marginalized and care of families in our community.

One of your favorite things? A renewed love of outdoor adventures includes hiking and kayaking with my kids.

Two fun facts about you? I have lived on the coast of New England, the coast of the Gulf of Mexico and now the coast of Southern Oregon. While I have found beauty in each of these regions, I must say that Oregon is by far my favorite place to live! I am a museum junky and nerd. From art museums in the metropolis to small town railroad museums, I am drawn to them all.

South Coast Equity Coalition Director

Why do you do this work? Coming soon!

One of your favorite things? Well I always have to pick three - my garden, musicals, and dinner with friends.

Two fun facts about you? I am from Roberta, Georgia - a small two-red light town where the peaches grow. I started a scoby hotel at Coos Head Food Co-op and love fermentation and cooking.