I was born in Williamsburg Virginia and grew up getting to visit Colonial Williamsburg with my family. I quickly fell in love with the gardens and animals that I saw. When my family moved to Maryland, my passion for animals only grew and I wanted to learn as much as I could about dogs, cats, and other animals. I would pet sit for family friends, took my dog to training classes, and was an avid reader.  In high school, I got a job working on a local horse farm where I was able to learn to take care of horses, ride, and manage a stable. That experience led me to pursue a Bachelor’s degree in Equine Science and Management and the University of Kentucky. While in college, I volunteered at KESMARC, and equine rehabilitation facility, participated in undergraduate research, became and Agriculture ambassador for the college, and worked at both and Equine and Animal ER for several years. I pursued every opportunity that I could to learn more about horses and agriculture. In that process, I ended adding a dual minor in Agriculture Economics and Animal Science to round out my education.

My experience in undergraduate research was very impactful and allowed me to gain experience in pasture management, agronomy, and equine nutrition. My passion for nutrition and using that for a foundation of animal care led me to pursue a Master’s degree in Animal Science where I was a part of several research projects related to equine nutrition and management. While in graduate school I had the opportunity to guest lecture, teach a course, and assist with several extension events. I loved being able to share my passion for agriculture and horses with others, which led me to choose a career in education.

I serve as an Equine teacher at Locust Trace Agriscience Center.  As an equine teacher and agriculture educator, I am so excited to share the many opportunities that the equine industry has to offer, and help students to learn about horses by covering subjects that relate to equine science, management, and basic care. The experience that I had in high school working on the horse farm help to shape me for the rest of my life. It taught me communication skills, the value of hard work, confidence in my abilities, and to help develop a love for agriculture. I hope to instill these same values into the students I get to work with and help them develop into confident and caring adults.

"There is something about the outside of a horse that is good for the inside of a man."

~ Sir Winston Churchill