August 31, 2023
What position will you be holding at MPA?
Lower School Counselor
From what school/organization are you coming?
Mendota Elementary School
Tell us about your education and past experience.
I earned my BA from St. Catherine University in St. Paul, and my MS in Education in Counseling from Fordham University in New York. When I returned to the Twin Cities, I took a course of study at the University of Minnesota in order to achieve my MN State School Counseling licensure.
I started my career in education as a school librarian at St Peter’s Prep High School in Jersey City, NJ, and realized quickly that my favorite part of my work there was listening to and helping my students. I decided to pursue counseling instead of library science, and my next position was counseling at Loyola High School in New York. Since coming back to Minnesota, I’ve worked at Visitation School and then Mendota Elementary School. I have loved every school in which I’ve had the honor to serve! I’ve learned valuable lessons at each one.
What did you find appealing about MPA?
I was immediately drawn to the Mounds Park Academy mission and motto! “Dream Big, Do Right” sings to my heart! I am passionate about justice issues, believing that everyone deserves to be treated with respect and to have opportunities to pursue their dreams. MPA has a welcoming, inclusive spirit that feels accepting and encouraging. I love that!
What lasting impact do you plan to have on MPA?
I want to help students know that their journeys matter, and that they are capable of managing their emotions, solving problems and making friends. When kids feel a sense of belonging, they gain confidence to dream big and do right.
What’s your big dream?
My big dream is that I will make a positive difference in the lives of the people I meet!
What are you (and your family, if you so choose) passionate about?
My husband, Martin, our three kids and I are all passionate about nature, music, traveling and spending time with friends and family. We all love New York City, where Marty was born and raised.
What’s a fun fact about you that our community would love to know?
I once tried out to be a firefighter in Minneapolis! It was physically the hardest thing I’ve ever tried to do!
