I was born and raised in Worcester and attended Holy Name High School, Assumption University for undergrad and Clark University for grad school. In my first job after college, I was the Children’s Advocate at the YWCA Domestic Violence Shelter. I began my career in state government in then- Senator Ed Augustus’s office as Legislative Aide and Constituent Services director. Helping residents across Central Massachusetts access key services, I saw the impact that government could have on the lives of people, and the power that an elected official could have as an advocate. I then went on to serve as the Deputy Chief of Staff for Lieutenant Governor Tim Murray, where I managed statewide policy on issues such as housing and homeless, domestic and sexual violence and veteran’s services.
After 3 years at the Executive Office of Health and Human Services, I left state government and joined the YWCA Central Massachusetts as their Chief Operating Officer overseeing multiple service programs including early education and care, transitional housing, domestic violence services, youth development, and wellness and health equity.
I am currently a candidate for the State Senate 1st Worcester District.
Please tell us about your current career and what you love most about what you do?
Up until recently, I served as the Chief Operating Office of the YWCA Central Massachusetts. Guided by the mission to eliminate racism, empower women, and promote peace, justice, dignity and freedom for all, I oversaw our teams working in early education and care, transitional housing, domestic violence services, youth development, and wellness and health equity. I loved this role, not only because the mission aligns with my core values, but because our phenomenal team meets the direct needs of our community. As was amplified during the pandemic in which we never closed our doors, our team is comprised of incredible people who are always willing to step up and to do more and do things differently to meet the changing and emerging needs of the community.
What is your favorite restaurant in Worcester, and what is your favorite dish?
The mussels appetizer at Via and the Kung Pao (vegan) Chicken at Loving Hut
Who is the most interesting person you’ve ever met?
Gloria Steinem
If you could travel anywhere in the world right now, where would it be and why?
Barcelona. It is such an eclectic, artistic community on beautiful beaches.
What is your go to band when you can’t decide what to listen to?
Indigo Girls
What is your best advice?
“Whatever you choose to do, leave tracks. That means don’t do it just for yourself. You will want to leave the world a little better for you having lived.” Ruth Bader Ginsburg
What is one of the top three items on your Bucket List?
Running a marathon outside of Boston
What current/former local business makes you the most nostalgic about Worcester?
Coghlin’s, where I had my first summer job.
Choosing anyone alive and a non-relative with whom would you love to have lunch? Why?
Michelle Obama
Where do you see yourself in 5 to 10 years?
Serving in and with the community.
What is something interesting that most people don’t know about you, even your friends or family.
I love 90’s hip hop music
What 3 words or phrases come to mind when you think of the word HOME?
Family, community, Worcester
If a motion picture was made of your life, what actor/actress would you choose to play you?
Mariska Hargitay
What is your favorite thing or something unique about Worcester?
The broad diversity of our community
What is your favorite smell?
Lavender
Who inspires you to be better?
My niece, Gianna
