Tell us a little bit about yourself.  

I was raised by my grandparents on the Nez Perce reservation in Idaho. I graduated from Lake Oswego High School, where I was recruited to play basketball at Illinois State. After college, I moved around trying to find the perfect balance with work and finding my passion – that’s when Rise Above was founded.  

I enjoy being active – playing and doing all things sports. I’m an avid golfer, snowboarder and trying to be a road biker. I also really enjoy playing tennis so if anyone needs a tennis partner, I’m your girl!  

What inspired you to want to join the Indigenous Advisory Council and what do you hope to achieve?  

Honestly, Council President Juarez. I’ve watched her fight to advance public health policy, gender-based violence and homelessness issues and I can truly say that I’m inspired by her. By joining this council, I would like to do my part to contribute to all of the amazing work she’s started.  

Our youth are facing some of the toughest systemic challenges and I believe this council has an opportunity to enhance and create culturally attuned services to combat these challenges, I want to be a part of that movement.  

How does being Nez Perce influence your life in the Salish Sea region? 

It brings a deeper appreciation of where I come from and an opportunity to educate others about how different each of our tribes are.  

What is something that you bring to this role that will help the group work together? 

My passion is service to others, particularly the children. I believe in community-based partnerships, and through my work with Rise Above I believe I bring a strong team of like-minded individuals willing to support the mission to change the narrative for American Indian youth.  

What do you love most about living in this region? 

I love living in District 5! I love that there is always something exciting happening in Seattle, never a dull moment here.