After a celebratory dinner, I arrived home and carefully set my keys on the entryway table. I took off my graduation gown and laid it over a chair. I then opened a small card my professor and mentor had given me earlier in the day and read the simple yet profound message: "Change takes courage."

At that moment, I paused and reflected on the journey that had led me to this point. The note was more than just a reminder of what I had achieved; it also encouraged the changes that were yet to come. My mentor was right – it had taken a tremendous amount of courage to get here.

As a native Texan growing up in an underprivileged neighborhood, my family did not encourage education. My grandfathers both served in the military, and my father was a peace officer. Despite the challenges and lack of support, I dreamed of attending college. Shortly after I turned 18, I found myself 100% on my own. Juggling school and work was tough, but I bet everything on myself.

In 2018, I earned a Master of Business Administration from the University of the Incarnate Word, becoming the first person in my family to attend and graduate college.

“We’re in the final stages of the process,” a lady said over the phone. “But let’s set up an interview.”

I landed a role in a prominent financial institution. I was so excited that when I received word, I shrieked at the top of my lungs, ran around my house, and danced. This was my first ‘civilian’ job after spending almost 9 years in public service. All my hard work seemed to be paying off. I put everything into the role. It’s where I cultivated a growth mindset and learned to ask the ‘dumb questions’ that helped me thrive.

Since then, my professional career has been in accounting and finance, working in roles in capital markets, private banking, real estate, mergers and acquisitions, and capital expenditures.

In 2021, I made the bold decision to sell my home and move to Austin with zero contacts, determined to go all in - yet again. It wasn’t easy, but I quickly learned how to find and open doors to flourish, growing in many ways.

Today, I have raised my children independently and fully understand the challenges single-parent families face economically. I strongly believe quality education empowers families to gain financial stability – creating a better standard of living and lowering poverty rates in communities. My professional experience has given me a wealth of knowledge that many families do not have access to. As a mother of a child with dyslexia, I find joy in helping children with their journey, to find COURAGE, and lead the next generation to greatness.

On the weekends, I spend time with family, and our dogs (Blake and Dolly). I volunteer regularly in various nonprofits. I enjoy live music, brunch, playing soccer, and traveling with a portable hammock. If you want to follow my journey to become a school board trustee, please subscribe to my newsletter.