Background in Global Business: With experience connecting with global industry leaders as a diplomat, I appreciate seeking outside opportunities to fuel growth here at home. But I also understand the vital importance of investing in our own grassroots, as small business owners pay local taxes while their money circulates more actively in our community than money spent online or with large corporations. I am comfortable speaking with industry leaders from here or overseas in order to build a stronger economy for our county.

Renewal School District: As the only renewal school district in North Carolina, Rowan-Salisbury Schools (RSS) are at the forefront of transformative public education. We must attract and retain top talent within Rowan-Salisbury Schools, a vital employer and partner in our county.

Personal Commitment: As a parent of RSS students and a volunteer and board member for Communities in Schools-Rowan, I am dedicated to supporting our schools, including being a strong supporter of a school bond on the ballot; our children are worth investing in.

Veterans’ Well-being: Having served in the national security branch, I am committed to supporting veterans, especially in accessing mental health resources, opioid addiction rehabilitation, and assistance with homelessness.

Advocacy for Veterans: Our veterans deserve our utmost support for their sacrifice. Members of the military and foreign affairs community devote their attention to serving, defending, and protecting our democracy, and they deserve all the same care and devotion to preserving their health and social networks when they return to our community.

Placemaking and Community Growth: Rowan County planners have displayed incredible talent over centuries connecting our remarkable community. I want to do all I can to build off their efforts, to encourage more young families to reside and work here, to support and grow existing arts and cultural opportunities, to protect our small businesses and sources of investigative journalism as they flourish.

Addressing the Housing Crisis: As innovative placemakers, I believe we can creatively address a growing crisis in available housing, as we have substantial land assets, low taxes, and a desirable location to migrate towards (as already evidenced by trends during the COVID pandemic). 

Advocacy for Literacy: As a board member of the Rowan County Literacy Council, I am committed to promoting reading as a key activity for all citizens, fostering a culture of curiosity and open-mindedness.