How long have you been an FCCMA member, and why did you join? I have been an FCCMA member since March 2025. I decided to join FCCMA to enhance my professional development and meet other professionals who have a passion for serving their local communities.
Please describe your areas of formal/advanced education.
I received my bachelor’s degree in political science from Florida State University in 2021. I am on track to graduate this fall with my master’s degree in public administration from Florida State University.
Have you always been in the public sector, or have you had experience in the private sector?
I began my professional career as committee staff for the Florida House of Representatives, before taking a Legislative Policy Analyst role with the Florida League of Cities.
If you are currently a student, what is your program of study?
I am currently a student working toward my master’s in public administration (MPA).
What is your favorite part of your educational process thus far?
My favorite part of my educational process thus far has been learning the profound impacts local governments have on people’s daily lives. From the public safety officials keeping us safe, to those who work to provide us with our utilities, parks, and roadways, each local civil servant is critical in providing us with the beautiful communities we live, work, and play in every day.
What is your least favorite part of your educational process thus far?
A challenge I have faced as part of my educational process thus far has been taking concepts learned in class and applying them to the real world. Although learning foundational concepts is important, oftentimes what is learned in the classroom may not translate in the workplace due to the uniqueness of the role. As such, practical experience is key to receiving a well-rounded educational experience.
What are your hobbies/interests?
My hobbies include taking walks in nature, visiting new places with friends, and listening to music.
If you are a person interested in a career in public service, what question would you ask a seasoned manager?
As a student, I would like to ask a seasoned manager what their process looks like when making difficult decisions, such as deciding between allocating limited funding to one project over another.
If you are a student or new to the profession, who are your mentors?
I have been blessed to have several mentors thus far in my professional career. Each one has provided me with valuable insight and support, which has led me to where I am today.
Did you have any other career paths you initially considered, and why did you ultimately choose public service?
Prior to choosing a career path in public service, I had an interest in becoming a therapist and applied to colleges with the intent of entering into a psychology major, as I wanted to help people and make a meaningful difference in the lives of others. After taking a government class in my senior year of high school and learning about the public sector and how I could play a small part in making impactful change, I realized that my passion was public service. I ultimately ended up changing my major to political science when I arrived for FSU orientation, and have fallen in love with the profession.
Do you have a story you can share about how being a member of FCCMA has helped you or impacted you in a positive way?
Although I am a new member, FCCMA has already impacted me positively in that I have gotten to meet incredible people at the 2025 FCCMA Annual Conference, learn from their experiences, and apply their insights to my current role.
