Ever since I can remember, I knew that I wanted to become a teacher! I worked at a residential facility for individuals with intellectual disabilities and significant behavior challenges while going to art school and quickly realized that was the population I wanted to dedicate my life's work towards. I am so grateful to get to combine my passions of art and working with individuals with diverse needs on a daily basis!

My most rewarding moments as an educator occur when students with special needs bypass traditional barriers through creative expression. I mentor a student who, despite facing significant literacy challenges, possesses extraordinary talent in painting and mural-making. I advocated for her placement at the School of the Art Institute of Chicago (SAIC). By securing a sponsor and navigating the enrollment process, I helped her transition into continuing education—turning her dream into reality!

My mission is to create a Chicago-based art organization for adults with intellectual disabilities (22+) that specializes in large-scale public murals. These artists would be provided with an uplifting professional studio environment where they can develop their craft while selling their work to promote financial independence. Our aim would be to transform Chicago’s neighborhoods into inclusive galleries that celebrate neurodiversity and the power of community-driven art.