Meet the Team

I am an adventurer, world traveler, and tea-lover. In my time living overseas I learned what it was like to be welcomed as a foreigner. I experienced first-hand the difficulties of the U.S. immigration system when applying for a fiance visa and permanent residence for my now husband, a Polish immigrant. For two years I managed a temporary housing ministry for newcomers arriving in NC and walked alongside refugees, asylum seekers, and humanitarian parolees in their resettlement journeys. I am excited to serve alongside this community.

I am a Light seeker, Equine Facilitated Counselor and coffee drinker from Wake Forest, NC. Through the opportunity to get to know my neighbors at Refugee Hope Partners and my friend’s experiences with immigration, I came to see that advocacy in action is what we must do as God’s love overflows in our own lives.

Over the years, I have developed a posture of learning among people who are different from me. Growing up in Oklahoma, my family helped to sponsor Vietnamese and Cambodian refugees. They became part of our family and sparked a passion for refugees and immigrants. As a relationship builder and connector, I have learned that mutual giving and receiving are crucial in developing a community of welcome. Beautiful things happen when we enter each other’s stories. In my role at We Choose Welcome, I am learning to help others share their stories to advocate for a more equitable and just community.

In 2015 the stories of Syrian refugees in the news broke my heart and inspired me to seek out more refugee and immigrant stories. Since then I have read many books written by and about those who have fled their homes. These stories inspired me to get involved. My role with We Choose Welcome connects my passion for the displaced with my experience in social media and love of graphic design.

I am a home educator for my four children and an avid literary fiction and memoir reader.

I was born in Mexico, raised in rural west Tennessee, and now call South Carolina home. I live with my family in the Upstate, where refugee and immigrant friends have become an important part of our lives. I enjoy adventuring with my kids, getting to know my neighbors, and learning how to bake, paint, and garden.