Inspired by the poet Sonia Sanchez, who proclaims, “Power--the point of having power, of knowing something, is to empower others,” I find purpose in employing mindfulness and intentional practice toward co-creating the kind of community we want to inhabit. I grew up in a military family. Moving to new places frequently gave me extensive experience living diversity and exploring the work of finding connection across differences.  Earning my Bachelor's degree in Women's and Gender Studies and Sociology, I was able to immerse myself in disciplines that value social justice as a viable lens through which to view research and activism. Yet my personal commitment to social justice is more than merely an academic pursuit, it is an integral part of who I am, especially as a consciously devoted mother of three children who celebrate the value of interconnectedness within their diverse community.  As a certified facilitator of Girl Circles, I am aware of the myriad ways that our individual differences can support bridge-building through empathy, collaboration, self-actualization and harmony at all stages of life. ​​​