Tell us a little bit about you and your background.

Ever since I can remember I loved making and creating. As a youth I was forever toting a bag of art making materials wherever I went. Not much has changed. I’m always toting something from here to there. Thinking about the best ways to build, create, or experiment with materials. I started my career over 20 years ago working at a school for students with special needs. I later moved to the charter school world and spent 10 years working as an art educator in Harlem. While there I became a certified International Baccalaureate educator. I learned so much and so much about how to push my students. After having two children, I settled back to suburbia where I landed a position at Montclair High School. I supported their Advanced Placement and ceramics curriculum.

What attracted you to work at One River School?

I came to One River in 2020 as an online summer camp instructor. The pandemic had us all teaching through screens. It was so hard and not fun. I figured I should seek out summer employment that would help me better facilitate my instruction through zoom. They gave me a chance and I really fell in love with the people and the company vision. They do what so many art teachers wish they could do, but don’t have the resources or time to do so.

How would you describe your team?

My team is fun, hardworking and thoughtful. We laugh a lot and that is important. You gotta have fun. I look forward to coming to work everyday!

What do you think we do best at One River?

We know that we have to be reflective. We teach the process of being reflective in art making to our students. We must reflect in order to learn and when we learn we can grow. I think it is how we have gotten as far as we have and why we will continue to grow not just in numbers but in quality as well.

Who or what motivates you?

Smiles and pride. There is nothing like a proud student or a recommendation from a happy customer.

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

We had a staff gathering after hours one night and played this silly game that has become somewhat of a tradition. The game gets everyone talking and working together. People who don’t like playing games enjoy this one. There were lots of laughs and a bit of healthy competition. I remember looking around and thinking this is really fun!

What do you enjoy outside of One River?

I truly enjoy travel and family. These days my large, extended family is a bit spread out so traveling to them is important to me. Harrison (8yrs) and Cameron (6yrs) also love travel and learning about other cultures. When we can’t travel we are watching shows and documentaries as inspiration for future trips.