Candidate survey responses
Why are you running for president of council? What do you hope to accomplish in the position?
I’m running for President of Council to build on our successes and elevate public engagement. My goal is to make it easier for residents to stay informed, share their ideas, and see their input reflected in city decisions. By strengthening communication and refining council operations, we can make local government even more effective, responsive, and aligned with the Athens 2040 Comprehensive Plan.
As Council President, I will be responsible for assigning Council members to committees while ensuring strategic oversight. I plan to remain actively engaged with the city’s numerous committees, commissions, and working groups to maintain a comprehensive understanding of how different city systems function together.
Why are you running as a Democrat?
Democratic values of equity, inclusion, and community-driven progress align with my approach to leadership. I believe in practical, people-centered solutions that support working families, protect our environment, and strengthen our local economy. My focus is on bringing people together, addressing challenges with transparency, and ensuring every voice counts in shaping our city’s future.
What is your previous political or public office experience?
I currently serve as an At-Large City Council Member and Chair of the City & Safety Services Committee, where I’ve worked alongside city leaders, commissions, and residents to advance initiatives in accessibility, sustainability, and public engagement. Last fall, I ran for a seat in Ohio’s House of Representatives, winning Athens County but falling short in District 95’s more conservative counties.
Since joining City Council in 2022, I have led major legislative efforts, including securing funding for a new Fire Department Headquarters to enhance emergency response, championing anti-discrimination protections for race-based hairstyles, updating Athens’ Municipal Code to reflect inclusive language, and co-sponsoring resolutions to honor Indigenous history and reaffirm the city’s commitment to racial equity.
Additionally, I spearheaded efforts to expand broadband access, strengthen environmental infrastructure, and advance responsible development policies. My leadership experience at Ohio University, soon transitioning to Executive Director of Community Engagement, continues to shape my commitment to public service and collaboration.
What do you see as Athens’ biggest issues?
What experiences, knowledge, expertise do you think you can bring as president? Relevant major accomplishments?
I have been an active member of the Athens community since 2003, when I arrived at Ohio University to pursue a degree in Interpersonal and Organizational Communication. From the start, I embraced leadership roles, serving as a student trustee on OHIO’s Board of Trustees, working as a resident assistant, and engaging with diversity-focused organizations.
Building on that foundation, I earned a master’s degree through OHIO’s Individual Interdisciplinary Program (IIP) and spent a decade in the Division of Student Affairs, advancing student success and diversity education. In 2019, I transitioned to the Division of Diversity and Inclusion, where I currently serve as Director of OHIO’s Pride Center, leading initiatives that foster inclusion, advocacy, and community-building.
In 2022, I earned an interdisciplinary Ph.D. specializing in positive psychology and decision-making, equipping me with research-backed strategies to enhance individual and group decision-making. My academic and professional experiences allow me to approach leadership with both a data-driven mindset and a deep appreciation for human-centered governance.
My dedication to public service and leadership has been recognized at the local and national levels. In 2023, I received OHIO’s Outstanding Administrator Award, the university’s highest honor for excellence in administrative service. In 2024, I was named one of the National League of Cities’ 40 Under 40 rising political leaders, a distinction that highlights my commitment to effective governance and community engagement.
Where and how do you think the city could improve life for its residents?
Athens can continue enhancing residents’ quality of life by expanding affordable housing, improving pedestrian and bike accessibility, and prioritizing sustainability in economic and environmental planning. Strengthening public engagement is also key—ensuring that residents feel heard and see tangible results from their participation in local government. As Council President, I will champion efforts to make Athens even more inclusive, connected, and forward-thinking.
Some hot-button items over the past year have been the Athens-Hocking Solid Waste District plan (and Athens-Hocking Recycling Centers becoming Southeast Ohio Recycling Terminal council of governments), construction on West Union and the Lostro Project, a recent cyber theft and an income tax increase. Any thoughts on how the city/council handled problems that arose during these circumstances?
These issues underscore the complex interplay among fiscal responsibility, public relations, and collaborations. Managing construction projects requires balancing infrastructure improvements with minimizing disruptions to businesses and residents. The cyber theft reinforced the need for strong digital security, and the income tax increase highlighted the importance of ongoing dialogue about city funding priorities.
