A Career of Service

I graduated from the University of Michigan with a bachelor’s degree in Political Science and English followed by a master’s degree in Russian and East European Studies.  My first job out of college was as a Russian analyst for the Central Intelligence Agency in Langley, Virginia. The work was interesting and challenging, and I am proud to have served my country there.

Eventually I felt the pull to serve in different ways.  I started teaching adult basic literacy and English as a Second Language in my spare time. I earned a second Master’s in Reading from George Mason University in Fairfax, VA, to improve my teaching skills.

After moving to Versailles, I taught adult basic education and GED, then began work under a national Workplace Literacy grant at Texas Instruments. I stayed on as the corporate trainer there after the grant ended.

Later, I served by helping launch of a Lexington nonprofit that provides rides to older adults and those with visual impairment, ITNBluegrass. I then led ITNBluegrass as executive director for 10 years. In 2022, while working for ITNAmerica, ITNBluegrass’ parent organization, I founded Woodford Wheels, which is an ITN-affiliated nonprofit offering low-cost rides to residents of Woodford County.

I have extensive work experience in nonprofit management, business development, communications and training.

I have also worked for my neighbors in Versailles by serving in city government: eight years on City Council and almost two years as Mayor.