How and why did you initially become involved with CASA and choose to become involved in the board?
Someone once said, “A best friend is the only one that walks into your life when the world has walked out.”
I like to say, “A CASA is a friend that walks into your life when it seems that the world has walked out.” I decided to become a CASA volunteer to join hands with abused and neglected children on their walk through adversity, as I, too, know what it means to grow up in an at-risk environment. I want to remind our youth who is hurting that there is opportunity in adversity.
As someone who grew up around children from at-risk communities, I am very much so aware of the role that trauma plays in the lives of abused and neglected children. Based on my own experiences and dedication to youth advocacy, childhood trauma is something that people never really get over, even as they enter the later parts of adulthood. The key, however, is not to get over it but to get through it and potentially help someone else through theirs.
Therefore, when someone asks me, “Why did you become a CASA volunteer in 2012” or “Why do currently serve on the CASA Board of Directors,” I respond: it is because our children need us, no matter who you are, to step in and step up. They need to know that there is someone on the other end fighting for them…that there is hope.
As you look ahead in the next several years, what do you see as CASA of East TN’s priorities?
There are 4 areas of importance that I see as being a part of CASA of East Tennessee’s priorities over the next several years They include: talent recruitment, development, and retention; technology advancement to further mission goals; innovative sustainability; and increased partnership with local businesses and community leaders.
What is the impact of philanthropy on our organization?
Philanthropy is essential to the organization’s success because it allows the organization to continue to affect change in lives of abused and neglected children. Without the acts of good works and charitable giving, CASA would not be able to provide our youth with the amount of time, resources, and advocacy needed to mitigate the traumatic experiences that our at-risk children face too often.
What do you think are the core components of CASA of East TN? What makes us a strong organization?
CASA of East Tennessee is a strong organization because it has a strong and committed network of volunteers, board members, and Juvenile Court leaders who are supportive, selfless, and compassionate about the needs of abused and neglected children residing in East Tennessee.
What’s your professional/ educational background?
I currently serves as the associate general counsel at Oak Ridge Associated Universities (ORAU) in Oak Ridge, Tennessee. I earned my bachelor's degree in political science and psychology from the University of Tennessee at Knoxville and a Juris Doctor degree from the University of Tennessee College of Law.
What’s something you’re passionate about?
I am passionate about juvenile justice and advocating for the needs of at-risk youth, including those who have/are being abused and/or neglected.
What’s your favorite ice cream flavor?
I have been eating more frozen yogurt these days, but if it’s ice cream, I’d have to say butter pecan. It was a childhood favorite.
What's the most recent book you’ve read/ tv show you’ve binged?
The most recent book I have read is Dear Sonali, Letters to the Daughter I Never Had by Lynn Toler. Ironically enough, I am huge a Divorce Court fan, so I decided to try one of Judge Toler’s books. I’d recommend it to young ladies who are looking for something simple, yet powerful. Lynn Toler always shares positive and uplifting messages for young people; I think that is why I really like her character on Divorce Court.