Q: Tell us about yourself and the impact you are making.
A: I have been involved in the arts my entire life. I trained in dance from a young age and was accepted into the Alabama School of Fine Arts in the seventh grade, a pivotal moment that confirmed my passion and dedication to the arts.
My journey, however, was shaped by profound loss at an early age. I lost my father to a heart attack when I was 9 and later lost my mother in a car accident when I was 16. These tragedies interrupted my formal arts education and altered the path I once envisioned. Even so, my love for the arts never faded.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, I found myself rooted in the Gulf Coast and reflecting on what was missing in our community. I recognized a lack of accessible, high-quality arts education and felt called to create the opportunity I had lost.
On Jan. 1, 2021, I founded the Diamondhead School of Fine Arts with a mission of providing equal-opportunity arts education to students of all ages and backgrounds.
Today, the school is a thriving, multidisciplinary nonprofit offering programs in dance, music, theater, art, language and wellness. What began as a single class has grown into a creative home for students across the Gulf Coast.
Through inclusive programming and strong community partnerships, I am proud to help build confidence, creativity and connection — proving that the arts truly can change lives.
Q: What are you passionate about and why?
A: I am deeply passionate about creating spaces where people feel seen, supported and empowered to grow. For me, the arts are not just about performance or technique. They are a powerful tool for confidence-building, communication and connection. I have witnessed firsthand how creative expression can help individuals find their voice, develop discipline and discover a sense of belonging.
What drives me most is ensuring that access to the arts is not limited by income, background or circumstance. I believe creativity should be available to everyone, and I am passionate about removing barriers that prevent people from exploring their potential. Whether a student dreams of a professional career in the arts or simply needs a safe, encouraging environment to grow, the impact is equally meaningful.
I also am passionate about community-building. When families, educators, artists and local partners unite, something truly special happens. The arts create shared experiences that strengthen communities and bring people together across generations.
Ultimately, my passion comes from seeing growth and watching confidence bloom, skills develop and individuals realize that they are capable of more than they imagined. Being part of that journey is what continues to inspire and motivate me every day.
Q: What special achievements or awards are you proud of?
A: Since becoming part of the Coast community, I have been incredibly honored by the recognition I have received. In 2023, I was named one of Hancock County’s Top 10 Citizens of the Year, an award that holds special meaning as it reflects community impact and service.
I also am proud that the Hancock County Chamber of Commerce nominated the Diamondhead School of Fine Arts for Nonprofit Organization of the Year in 2025. This nomination represents the collective efforts of our students, families, volunteers and supporters who believe in the power of accessible arts education.
Additionally, I have been nominated multiple years as one of the 100 Most Successful Women to Know by Gulf Coast Woman magazine. As someone who is new to the Coast, these acknowledgments have been especially meaningful and encouraging.
While awards are never the goal, they serve as affirmations that the work we are doing is making a difference. I am grateful for the support and trust of this community and excited to continue growing, serving, and building meaningful impact through the arts.
Q: Share a quote or mantra you live by that has helped you become successful.
A: “We are better together.” This mantra guides everything I do. At our school, it means that every voice matters — across every department, discipline and role. Collaboration, inclusion and respect are at the heart of our work, and I believe that when people feel heard and valued, they do their best work. Creating space for everyone to contribute has not only strengthened our organization, but also built a culture where creativity and community thrive.