What is your role and primary responsibilities at the Academy

I am a Senior Analyst on the Academy Studies team and perform a wide range of research tasks including: developing research frameworks, conducting study interviews, developing research findings and recommendations, writing reports, and presenting study results to clients and other stakeholders.

What do you like best about working at the Academy?

Over the last 15 years at the Academy, I have worked on 30+ projects for a variety of federal and state agencies and nonprofit organizations. The Academy provides me with the unique opportunity to work with different agencies and organizations and expand my understanding of the management and governance challenges in the public sector. It is a very rewarding experience.

Which of the 12 Grand Challenges in Public Administration resonates the most with you?

“Develop New Approaches to Public Governance and Engagement” resonates the most with me. The challenges the government faces have become increasingly complex and often transcend organizational boundaries. The traditional hierarchical government bureaucracy is no longer the predominant model for public service delivery. Addressing social and economic challenges requires collaboration across levels of government and sectors of society. It is critical for us to think more systematically about how to develop effective governance models in this evolving environment.

Why is public service important to you?

Public service is important to me because it plays a fundamental role in fostering a just and thriving society and provides opportunities to be a part of something bigger than ourselves. It is incredibly rewarding to be able to contribute my skills and efforts to tackling some of the most pressing issues facing the nation and developing innovative solutions that can improve people’s lives in meaningful ways.

What is your favorite hobby outside of the office?

Photography! I love to photograph kids and families and capture honest moments of love and connection.

What is your favorite travel destination, either past or future?

Kenya wildlife safari. This is actually my six-year-old son’s dream trip. He is obsessed with wild animals and has this ‘big’ plan to go to Africa to see lions, rhinos, and giraffes. I have also become excited about this trip, as he talks about it EVERY DAY!