I was born and raised in Allentown, PA, graduated from Wake Forest University in Winston-Salem, NC, and have made my home in Massachusetts ever since. I moved to Newburyport with my husband and two young children in 2009.
Like many others, we fell in love with Newburyport for its mix of history and livability—a place where our kids could walk to school, bike downtown to first jobs, and be embraced by a caring community when they needed support.
about Me
I spent the first half of my working life teaching in Massachusetts public schools. In roles ranging from kindergarten Spanish immersion to preparing high school seniors for collegiate composition, I worked with kids and families from diverse backgrounds. Teachers are charged with building classroom communities that connect and support everyone. This is a skill I hope to bring to the council floor to help bridge divides and bring more people to the table to find solutions for Newburyport.
About a decade ago, I pivoted in my career to become a professional writer with a focus on finance. I am a skilled researcher who can break down complex issues so they can be easily understood and acted upon. This work gives me insight into the city’s financing mechanisms—and the experience to know when I need to learn more to understand the big picture. I’m also passionate about providing clear, accurate, and timely information to residents about city issues.
Career & skills
Community INvolvement
I’m committed to making Newburyport work for everyone. Recently, I’ve focused my efforts in three main areas:
Yes for the Rec
As a strong supporter of Recreation and Youth Services (RYS), I followed the Rec Center project on its journey through various City Council committees for many years. As a citizen, I:
Worked to keep friends and neighbors informed about progress (or lack thereof)
Spoke at Council meetings to advocate for the Rec Center and its inclusion on the ballot
As a member of the Yes for the Rec ballot committee, I:
Created factual website, social media, and printed material to help residents understand the project and get out the vote
Answered questions and developed materials to help supporters advocate for the project
Delivered yard signs, knocked on doors, and appeared on Local Pulse to spread the word about the benefits of RYS for the community
Affordable Housing
As a member of the Greater Newburyport Housing Choice Coalition, I have:
Helped research and develop informational materials about the MBTA Communities Act, which requires cities and towns with MBTA service to zone for more multi-family housing near transit
Successfully advocated for deep affordability as part of the plan to redevelop the Brown School into senior affordable housing
Worked directly with City Councillors to develop Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) legislation that allows single-family homeowners to build additional living quarters on their property
I also served as a resident member of Newburyport’s ad hoc Zoning Advisory Group, where I:
Reviewed zoning options to increase multi-family zoning by right in Newburyport and comply with the MBTA Communities Act
Made recommendations to address housing needs in balance with neighborhood needs
Advocated for mixed-use zoning to ensure new development is part of a livable neighborhood
the PORT PIPER
Since 2023, I have attended City Hall meetings in person or via Zoom to report on City Council activity. The Port Piper is a newsletter styled for social media to provide accessible information about the Council’s biggest votes. On this platform, I have:
Summarized Council meetings and vote counts
Provided context about the issues
Provided information about elections and voting
Created special posts to explain complex issues and Councillors’ positions
Although I have brought the Port Piper to a close while I run for City Council, I remain passionate about keeping citizens informed about their local government. Use the contact form below to sign up for my newsletter.
Keep in touch
Questions, concerns, or ideas—I’d love to hear from you!