Community & Civic Leadership

Serving on the Board of Hope House Foundation — a Norfolk nonprofit supporting adults with developmental disabilities — has been one of the most meaningful leadership experiences of my career. As Secretary and Chair of Marketing & Development, I've helped shape organizational strategy, lead fundraising initiatives, and advocate for the use of assistive technology to improve quality of life for the people the organization serves.

This role has deepened my belief that design and technology, wielded with intention, can genuinely change lives.

Leading the Wards Corner Civic League meant showing up as a neighbor first and a leader second. I facilitated board and membership meetings, represented resident priorities in conversations with city officials, and participated in citywide planning forums that shaped the future of our neighborhood.

This experience sharpened my ability to build consensus across diverse stakeholders, manage conflict constructively, and communicate complex issues in plain language — skills I carry into every professional context.

I founded the Kickball League of Hampton Roads to create opportunities for recreation, social connection, and community engagement among adults throughout the region. Over sixteen years, the organization grew from approximately 100 participants on six teams to more than 1,700 players across nearly 100 teams.

As Commissioner, I oversaw every aspect of the organization's growth and operation, including strategy, budgeting, marketing, staffing, scheduling, technology, and customer experience. More than a recreational league, it became a thriving community built around shared experiences, lasting friendships, and a strong sense of belonging. The experience reinforced my belief that successful organizations are ultimately about creating environments where people want to participate, contribute, and return.

What began as a local fundraising event grew into a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting charitable causes throughout Hampton Roads. As Founder and President, I led the organization's incorporation, secured 501(c)(3) status, built partnerships with local businesses and community leaders, and guided a nine-member Board of Directors through strategic planning and growth.

During my tenure, Ghent Bar Tours raised more than $400,000 for charitable organizations across the region. The experience taught me invaluable lessons about mission-driven leadership, fundraising, volunteer engagement, and the power of bringing people together around a shared purpose.

Scouting is fundamentally a leadership development program. As Scoutmaster for Troop 5, I mentor a youth leadership team, help young people navigate challenge and failure, and model the values of service, integrity, and resilience that I was fortunate to learn as a Scout and believe underpin all great leadership.

Few experiences are more rewarding than watching someone discover they are capable of more than they thought possible. Working with young people reinforces many of the same principles that guide my professional leadership: developing leaders, building confidence, and creating opportunities for others to grow.

As Chair of the Administrative Council, I help guide the governance and strategic direction of a congregation of approximately 250 members. The role requires balancing stewardship, mission, financial oversight, and organizational priorities while working collaboratively with staff, ministry leaders, and volunteers.

Faith-based leadership has strengthened my ability to build consensus, navigate differing perspectives, and lead through service—skills that continue to shape my approach to both professional and community leadership.

Running for Norfolk City Council has been a masterclass in civic leadership—building a coalition, listening at the community level, and articulating a vision for the future. The campaign continues to sharpen my skills in public engagement, strategic communication, stakeholder alignment, and leading through ambiguity.