Raised by a single mother on welfare amidst the 1960s riots in Chicago's Cabrini-Green projects, I learned early on what it means to be resilient. Despite a broken public school system trying to label me with learning disabilities in first grade, my mother fought for my education, transferring me to a parochial school through church support - a decision that changed my trajectory and allowed me to thrive.
 

Now a resident of Peoria, Arizona, since 1988, I honor the legacy of my late husband, of 46 years, and cherish time with my family. Driven by my journey, I am deeply passionate about education and community safety, currently serving on the executive boards of two educational non-profits and the Peoria Citizens Police Academy Alumni.
 

Guided by faith and grounded in family values, I believe every student deserves the opportunity to succeed.Strong schools create strong communities, and West-MEC plays a vital role in providing students with real-world skills, industry certification, hands-on experience, and pathways to successful careers - whether they choose college, the workforce, military service, or entrepreneurship.