WYCO DEMS NEWSLETTER

What is your Kansas Story?
My Kansas story is rooted in service, resilience, and community. I’ve spent years working on the ground in Wyandotte County—as a teacher, a basketball coach, a housing navigator, and a community liaison—helping families navigate systems that weren’t always built for them. I didn’t just choose Wyandotte County; I invested in it. I’ve seen firsthand both the challenges and the incredible strength of our residents. This community shaped my leadership, and now I’m committed to helping shape its future.

What made you decide to run for office, in particular, for a seat on the County Commission?

I decided to run because I got tired of watching good people fall through the cracks while systems moved too slowly or not at all. I’ve always been someone who builds solutions—whether that’s helping families find housing or creating opportunities for young people. Running for County Commission felt like the next step to scale that impact. I wanted to bring a hands-on, problem-solving approach to local government and make sure District 1 had strong, consistent representation.

At one point, weren’t you registered as an Independent? How did you decide to change your affiliation to a Democrat? Can you tell me about the switch?

Yes, I was previously registered as an Independent because I’ve always believed in thinking for myself and putting people over politics. My decision to affiliate as a Democrat came down to alignment on key issues—especially around economic opportunity, housing, education, and equity. But I still carry that independent mindset into this role. I’m not here to be partisan—I’m here to get results for the people of Wyandotte County.

What are two or three policies you would like to see implemented while you sit on the commission?

First, I want to see a stronger, more aggressive strategy to address blight and vacant properties. These spaces should be assets, not liabilities.

Second, I’m focused on building out economic mobility pathways—things like workforce development tied directly to local industry, small business support, and even innovative programs that attract and retain residents.

Third, I want to improve how we connect residents to resources. Too many people don’t know what’s available to them. We need a more coordinated, transparent system that meets people where they are.

Can you share both your biggest hopes and biggest fears about the Chiefs’ impending move to Wyandotte County?

If the Kansas City Chiefs come to Wyandotte County, my biggest hope is that it becomes a true catalyst for economic growth—jobs for our residents, opportunities for local businesses, and long-term investment in our infrastructure and neighborhoods.

My biggest concern is that the benefits don’t reach the people who need them most. We’ve seen large developments come and go without fully uplifting the surrounding community. If this happens, it has to be done intentionally—with community benefits agreements, workforce pipelines, and protections against displacement.

We know your time in office has not been that long. However, can you share the biggest challenge you have faced so far?

The biggest challenge has been navigating systems that weren’t designed for speed or innovation. There’s often a gap between urgency in the community and the pace of government. Bridging that gap—while still building trust, learning processes, and pushing for change—has been a real test. But it’s also where leadership matters most.

Tell us one interesting thing about you that you haven’t shared publicly yet. For example, what is your superpower?

My superpower is connecting people and ideas in a way that creates momentum. I can walk into a room, see who needs to be connected, and bring together the right energy to move something forward. Whether it’s building partnerships, launching initiatives, or solving problems, I know how to turn conversations into action.