As a native of Augusta, Georgia, where many schools have performed below grade level for decades, I did not initially recognize the power of advocacy, but my mother did. I had the privilege of attending a magnet school from kindergarten through eighth grade and later the International Baccalaureate (IB) program in high school. However, my younger brother’s experience was very different. He remained on a magnet school waiting list for years, and watching his confidence decline and the disparity unfold sparked my advocacy at a young age. I poured into his academic growth day and night to ensure he was not left behind. My mother’s commitment to pursuing better educational opportunities through school choice ultimately changed the trajectory of my life. Because of that advocacy, I was able to reach the highest level of education and earn a doctorate.
Today, I carry that legacy forward in my daily work. As a developmental psychologist, I am grateful for the opportunity to support families navigating the complexities of learning disabilities. In my role as a community engagement organizer, I am honored to empower parents to become their child’s strongest advocate. My work is not defined by tradition; it is shaped by the innovation required to meet the evolving needs of families, children, and communities across Georgia. In every county I visit, I am reminded that there are children in need of resources, access, and opportunity.
Waking up each day with the honor of serving children affirms that I am walking in my purpose. I take pride in contributing to education reform and policy efforts that expand opportunities and strengthen communities statewide. My advocacy journey has taught me the importance of learning all that I can so that I can pay it forward. The most rewarding part of this work is the trust families place in me to walk alongside them on their journey. I do not take the responsibility of navigating choice for granted.
