Before entering the nonprofit sector, I earned a PhD in philosophy, honing my writing and research skills with a focus on feminist philosophy.

Seeking to make a more direct impact in the lives of others, I began my nonprofit career first as a volunteer crisis counselor at an anti-domestic violence organization and then as a full-time grant writer for agencies focused on family violence and trauma.

Later, as Director of Grants and Contracts at Catholic Charities of the East Bay, I built a successful Grants Department from scratch  — increasing foundation funding by 30% and attracting $4 million in funding from new governmental sources in just two years.

One of my most exciting accomplishments has been raising approximately $1 million in support of the launch of Claire's House — the Bay Area's first home for teen girls who were trafficked for sex.

I’m also currently a trainee psychotherapist and counseling psychology student, which has helped me develop a knowledge base and skill set I use every day, from understanding and assisting with organizational group dynamics to the people skills I use throughout the grant writing process.