Growth Over Comfort Co.
Career
After graduating from SIUE with a degree in Early Childhood Education, Cum Laude, I began my professional journey as a Case Manager with Head Start, walking alongside children and families and learning the power of meeting people where they are. From there, I became a Special Education Teacher with The Menta Group, where I discovered my love for creating supportive learning environments and helping others recognize their strengths. My path then led me to Scott Air Force Base as a Training and Curriculum Specialist GS-9, where I developed and delivered training programs that empowered others through education and skill-building.
Along the way, I picked up a second role as a Spa Coordinator at Four Seasons St. Louis, a place that unexpectedly taught me just as much about hospitality, connection, and creating meaningful experiences. Most recently, I have served as Training Coordinator at ComWell, building systems, leading initiatives, coordinating professional development opportunities, and expanding access to Mental Health First Aid and trauma-informed education across Southern Illinois.
When I look back, my job titles may have changed, but my purpose never has. I am, at my core, an educator, a connector, and someone who believes deeply in helping people become the best version of themselves. Every chapter of my journey has reinforced one simple truth: growth happens when we have the courage to move beyond our comfort zones.
This portfolio is a reflection of that journey—the people I've met, the communities I've served, the lessons I've learned, and the impact I've been privileged to make along the way.
Every role I've held has been another invitation to choose growth over comfort—and I'm still saying yes.
Grant Work
Below highlights training events I coordinated and supported throughout my work at ComWell to fulfill both Rural Community Opioid Response Program (RCORP) and Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinic (CCBHC) grant deliverables.
From planning logistics and managing registrations to collaborating with presenters and engaging community partners, each event contributed to strengthening the behavioral health workforce across our region. These experiences allowed me to grow as a learning and development professional, expand my professional network, and help create meaningful learning opportunities that continue to impact individuals, organizations, and communities.
I had the incredible honor of speaking at ICOY’s first in-person Learning Community, where I shared my experience with the CBAT-O survey!
It was an amazing opportunity to discuss how this tool helps assess an organization's trauma-informed practices, along with the challenges and successes of its implementation.
Being able to educate others on trauma-informed care is something I’m deeply passionate about, and I truly enjoyed engaging in meaningful conversations with fellow professionals. I’m excited to see how organizations continue to grow in their trauma-informed journeys!
Thank you to ICOY for hosting such an impactful event and to everyone who participated in the discussion. Let’s keep the momentum going!
ICOY Learning Community Speaker
Mental Health First Aid
Mental Health First Aid has been one of the most meaningful and rewarding aspects of my professional journey. As a certified Adult and Youth Mental Health First Aid Instructor, I have had the opportunity to equip community members, educators, healthcare professionals, and workplace teams with the knowledge and skills needed to recognize, understand, and respond to mental health and substance use challenges.
Through each training, participants gain practical tools to support individuals in crisis and connect them with appropriate resources. Beyond certification numbers, these classes represent meaningful conversations, stigma reduction, increased awareness, and stronger communities.
This portfolio highlights a collection of Mental Health First Aid trainings, partnerships, and milestones that reflect my commitment to promoting mental wellness, fostering resilience, and empowering others to make a difference in the lives of those around them.
Adult Mental Health First Aid Classes
Youth Mental Health First Aid Classes
Hearts In Faith, NFP
My journey with Hearts in Faith, NFP began as a participant in the Sweetheart Program, a support initiative designed for single mothers seeking connection, encouragement, and personal growth. What started as receiving support eventually evolved into an opportunity to give back. Over the years, I transitioned from volunteer to Board Member and ultimately served as Secretary of the organization.
Hearts in Faith empowers single mothers and youth by promoting healthy relationships while fostering emotional, mental, and spiritual well-being. During my time in leadership, I assisted with and participated in numerous community events, including Sweet Heart Connections (both in-person and virtual), Back to School Blessings, and Milk and Cookies Christmas Blessings. These programs provided essential school supplies, holiday gifts, and meaningful support to families throughout the community.
Beyond these signature events, I participated in enrichment opportunities including Cardinal's baseball outings, author book signings, first-time homebuyer informational session, and discussions centered on personal growth topics such as healthy relationship red flags, communication, and love languages. These experiences created opportunities for families to learn, connect, and build lasting relationships within a supportive community.
My involvement with Hearts in Faith reflects my commitment to service, leadership, and empowering others. The organization played a meaningful role in my own journey, and it has been an honor to help extend that same support and encouragement to other mothers and families.
Witnessing your own growth is a beautiful sight ✧