Q: Tell me about your career background and how you got to your current position.
A: When I was an executive assistant in 2011, my then managers told me they were going to open a school in Richmond. I was intrigued and wanted to help. As the school’s first employee I was able to support in building the infrastructure or the organization, started the HR department and loved it.  That solidified my love of working in my community. From there, I just grew with the organization, and I ended up as a Senior Managing Director of Human Resources at Caliber Public Schools in Richmond and Vallejo. 

Q: Why did you choose to work for Larkin Street?
A: I was interested in working with young people and the staff that supports them. Ending youth homelessness is an amazing mission so I’m very excited to be part of that. My job as HR is to ensure that the staff is taken care of so they can better serve the youth. Because if they’re hurting or having daycare issues or medical issues and their mind is on that, they won’t be able to help the youth.  I want to make it my personal mission to make sure our staff is taken care of with dignity and respect and that they feel supported.

Q: What excites you about the future of the organization?
A: Larkin Street is a very established organization and everyone here is driven and passionate, it excites me to be part of a team like this. The staff is mission driven & always looking for ways to grow. The huge emphasis on ongoing DEIB work makes me feel like I’m at the right place. We’re not a stagnant organization and the mission is huge so there’s always going to be work to do and I’m excited to do it.    

Q:  What does leadership mean to you?
A: I’m a big fan of servant leadership. I don’t think people should just be told what to do. I believe in collaboration and effective leaders are those that listen and look at the big picture. Good leaders make sure that everyone’s voice has been heard and decisions are made with all stakeholders in mind.

Q: What career advice would you give to your 20-year-old self?
A: Give yourself grace. Ask a lot of questions. Find an amazing mentor.