Tell us about your role at USC. What brought you here?

I serve as the Assistant Director of Education and Strategic Initiatives in the Office of Access and Opportunity, which falls under the Division of Access, Civil Rights and Community Engagement. I’m passionate about helping every member of the Carolina community including faculty, staff, and students to feel valued, like they belong, and that they can truly thrive here.

I first came to USC as a graduate student working in University Housing, and what was supposed to be a two-year stop turned into a 14-year (and counting!) journey. The community here truly captured my heart.

What do you enjoy most about your work? How do you feel you make an impact?

I love the creativity I get to bring to my role, whether I’m designing a workshop on psychological safety or helping a department explore team dynamics. It’s incredibly rewarding to watch people open up, connect, and realize that both our commonalities and our differences are what make this institution unique. My work helps people reconnect with the human-centered and student-centered core of what we do. Everyone is trying to grow, learn, and navigate their lived experiences - and when we create space for that, something powerful happens. It’s beautiful to witness those moments when people recognize that, at the end of the day, we share more than we think. And it’s the diversification of our experiences that makes this community thrive.

You’ve held several roles during your time here. Can you talk about your journey?

I started as a graduate assistant in Patterson Hall and went on to serve in the Department of Student Life for many years. I’ve worked with student orgs, spiritual and religious life, graduate schools, you name it. I also led assessment and data efforts. In 2024, I stepped into my current role to broaden my scope across all USC campuses and deepen my work in curriculum development, training, and engagement. It’s been an incredible experience to see the different dynamics at play across the system and to collaborate closely with students, staff, and faculty. Each campus has its own rhythm, and being part of that has expanded how I think about connection, learning, and growth.

Are you still a student yourself?

Yes - I’m currently pursuing my Ed.D. in Educational Practice and Innovation with a focus on education systems improvement. My doctoral work is centered on staff recognition and retention which is something I care deeply about. I want to use my research to enhance the staff experience across higher education.

What motivates you to give back to USC?

I think that this university is special. I give because I want others to have the same access and sense of community that I’ve experienced here. I want them to feel valued and supported in pursuing their goals. Giving is one of the most meaningful ways I can contribute to that.

Are there particular programs you support?

Two causes that are close to my heart are the Gamecock CommUnity Shop and Staff Senate.

The Gamecock CommUnity Shop is an incredible resource that supports students, faculty, and staff facing food or basic needs insecurities. It’s a vital safety net that ensures no one in our community is left behind.

Staff Senate is equally important to me. Staff are the backbone of USC, and this body plays a key role in elevating staff voices, advocating for meaningful change, and fostering a sense of belonging. I was honored to serve as Staff Senate President during the 2024–2025 term, working to improve the staff experience and strengthen our campus community.

What advice do you have for fellow employees considering giving back?

Start with your own story - what helped you get to where you are, and who supported you. Then think about how you can pay it forward. Even if it’s a small gift, it makes a big impact. If you don’t see a fund that reflects your lived experience, consider helping to create one and help grow something new.

What do you enjoy outside of work?

In addition to my role and doctoral studies, I stay busy volunteering through Staff Senate and in the Columbia community. I’m a proud mom of two. I stay on the go, but it’s a joy to give back in every way I can.