Tell us a little bit about you and your background.

Teaching art is something that happened entirely by accident. I was always interested in creating since I was a young girl, taking apart old shirts to see how they were made, so I could fashion patterns to create new ones. And for a brief time, I thought I wanted to be a fashion designer, but my heart was set on math and science so I could eventually work for NASA. So, art took a backseat. I originally went to college for a degree in math and science. During my first year in college, I got a job as a teacher’s assistant at a local art school, and completely fell in love with imparting artistic knowledge onto children. I was teaching students 18 months- 3 years, and watching them grow and change using art as a vehicle became my passion. I scrapped the idea of a math and science, and graduated summa cum laude from Kean University with a BFA in Studio Art, concentrating in portraiture and sculpture. I continued to work for that art school, developing their Fine Art program for 13 years, expanding it to accommodate advanced students, until I found me new home at One River School in 2018.

What attracted you to work at One River School?

One River School called my name because we put students first. I am driven by the connections I create with my students and the friendships I foster between them, making my classroom feel like a family, and I knew One River aligned with that vision. When I began working with my Millburn Team, we became a family also, and that culture keeps me coming back day after day to do my best.

How would you describe your role here?

I feel that my role is one in which I wear many hats, and that is something I’m grateful for. I enjoy that my role is always an adventure. Each day is different and special. Sometimes I’m working on spreadsheets and web things. Other days I’m ideating and writing curriculum. Sometimes I’m making samples and creating graphics, flexing different artistic muscles. Most of the time I’m teaching students. I love that no two days are ever the same.

What do you think we do best at One River?

I think we excel at making everyone feel welcome. I know when I walk through the door, my team accepts me for exactly who I am. And because I get to be myself, my students are granted permission to be themselves. That acceptance trickles down from a high place, and reaches everyone. An inclusive environment gives students the confidence and courage to keep coming back and creating.

Is there a special One River moment that stands out for you?

There are so many amazing moments that happen here. I see my colleagues and students more than I see my own friends or family sometimes, and each encounter is special. What’s coming to mind right now are all the moments where our portfolio students are coming in, telling us they got into the colleges of their choice. I’m so proud of their accomplishments and honored to have been a part of their journey.

What do you enjoy outside of One River?

Outside One River, you can find me taking long walks catching Pokemon in Pokemon Go. I’m on a beach somewhere during the summer, and hiding out binging Netflix in the winter. I’m obsessed with my Nintendo Switch, but will sometimes swap it for my iPad so I can create digital art. I enjoy cooking, and sampling bizarre foods. I try to garden, but it doesn’t work out well. And in case you couldn’t tell by the everything about me, I’m obsessed with cats, especially my cat, Kiba.