My career working with students began when I was a college student in San Diego. During my freshman year, I was lost and uninspired as a business major. I used to hang out around the basketball gym a lot because I played in high school. That was where I met current St. Mary's College basketball coach Randy Bennett. Coach suggested that I consider teaching and coaching as a career and mentioned he knew of a local high school program that could use some help. The phone call that he made on my behalf changed my life forever.

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Now with more than 25 years of experience in education and 20 years of service in leadership roles including service as Superintendent of the Monrovia Unified School District, Assistant Superintendent in the Paramount Unified School District, and high school principal, my journey has afforded me the privilege of working collaboratively with stakeholders in communities across Southern California to ensure all students receive an outstanding education and reach their highest potential. My areas of expertise include strategic planning, communications, labor relations and negotiations, team building and leadership development, budget and finance, school redesign and improvement, facilities, AI and educational technology, and school safety. I also have experience with designing and opening new, innovative schools like Odyssey STEM Academy in Paramount.

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My approach to leadership is simple: STUDENTS FIRST! Sometimes, it takes courage to be driven by what matters most, but this is exactly the kind of leadership education needs right now.