Parents as Teachers

I serve as the Director of Prevention, overseeing programs that support families and promote positive early childhood experiences. I am a graduate of Old Dominion University with extensive experience in family-centered prevention services. 
The Up Center’s mission aligns with my core values, and I enjoy witnessing families grow in confidence and resilience. Fun fact: I am a former Parents as Teachers program participant myself, bringing a personal connection to my work.

I provide administrative and data management support for the Parents as Teachers program, ensuring records are complete, accurate, and compliant with program requirements. I bring extensive experience in scientific writing, data tracking, and program evaluation, helping maintain program quality and accountability.

I’m motivated by the people we support and by knowing that the information I manage helps demonstrate our impact. One of the most rewarding parts of my work is remembering that each data point represents a real family receiving life-changing services. Outside of work, I’m a stage manager, teacher, and set director for a local children’s theater program and camps.

I work to increase awareness of the need for foster families and connect the community with resources and support. I hold both a B.S. and MPA and bring over 20 years of experience in social services and program coordination. 
My motivation comes from helping families build connections and seeing communities grow stronger through support and education. I love being able to make a meaningful impact on children and families.

As a Senior Parent Educator, I provide in-home education and support to families, promoting early childhood development and positive parenting strategies. With 19 years of experience as a community support worker, I bring deep knowledge and compassion to my role.

I’m motivated by helping families grow and seeing parents light up when their child reaches a new milestone. I’m especially proud of the smiles and joy that come with progress. Outside of work, I love to cruise and spend time enjoying new destinations.

I empower parents to be their children’s first teachers and best advocates through the Parents as Teachers program, offering home visits and educational resources. For the past seven years, I have dedicated my career to strengthening families and early childhood development. 
What motivates me most is seeing families thrive and build strong, nurturing relationships. A fun fact about me is that I love spending time outdoors gardening and creating DIY projects.

As a Prenatal Parent Educator with Parents as Teachers, I support expectant parents with education and resources that promote healthy pregnancies, positive birth experiences, and strong parent-child relationships from the very beginning.

Working at The Up Center gives me the opportunity to help families grow, learn, and thrive. The greatest joy in my work is seeing families discover their strengths and confidently model the love and skills that shape a child’s future. Outside of work, I love spending time with my family and close friends, and I enjoy gardening.

As a Parent Educator, I provide families with guidance and information to help strengthen relationships and support healthy child development. With over 15 years of experience providing community-based family support, I bring a deep understanding of what families need to thrive.

Working with families—strengthening and supporting them—is what motivates me most. I enjoy meeting new families, helping reduce stress in their lives, and seeing them feel more confident as parents. Outside of work, I have two golden retrievers and love crafting.