Education has been a cornerstone of my journey, shaping my identity as a community advocate, leader, and organizer. My path toward completing a Bachelor’s Degree in Interdisciplinary Studies (Art, Communication, and Community Organizing) at Cal Poly Humboldt has deepened my understanding of the importance of connection—to ourselves, to others, and to the natural world. This interdisciplinary approach has taught me to weave seemingly disparate fields together, revealing the power of relationships, storytelling, and collaboration in building stronger communities.

My commitment to fostering connection is rooted in the belief that relationships lie at the center of optimal wellness. These relationships span our connections with ourselves, the earth, and each other. My studies have highlighted the value of bridging diverse perspectives and creating collaborative networks that strengthen the social fabric of our communities. This work involves connecting dots, whether between people, organizations, or ideas, and building bridges between urban and rural environments, technology and tradition, art and functionality.

Education

Pensacola State College, Pensacola, FL (2017)

• Focus: General Education

• Recommitted to academic excellence, achieving high grades while balancing responsibilities as a newly pregnant yoga teacher.

• Learned time management, communication, and the importance of resilience in education.

College of the Redwoods, Eureka, CA (2020 - 2022)

• Focus: Plant Sciences, Fine Arts

• Developed an early interest in plant sciences, which sparked a deeper appreciation for nature's interconnectedness but eventually transitioned to the arts.

• Earned an Associate's Degree in Fine Arts in December 2022.

• Highlighted courses: Welding, Interior Design, Carpentry, and Graphic Design.

• Engaged deeply with instructors and peers, fostering a love for teamwork, collaboration, and hands-on learning.

Pensacola State College, Pensacola, FL (2017)

• Focus: General Education

• Recommitted to academic excellence, achieving high grades while balancing responsibilities as a newly pregnant yoga teacher.

• Learned time management, communication, and the importance of resilience in education.

Cal Poly Humboldt, Arcata, CA (2023 - 2025)

• Pursuing: Bachelor’s Degree in Interdisciplinary Studies (Art, Communication, and Community Organizing)

• Courses reflect a blend of interests in art, communication, and community building.

• Gaining expertise in grant writing, event planning, and team organization to foster meaningful community connections.

Dandelion Herbal Center, Humboldt County (2022 - 2023)

• Program: Herbal Studies Certificate

• Immersed in a 10-month herbalism program to deepen understanding of plant medicine and community health practices.

A Multifaceted Perspective

My path has been both dynamic and deeply enriching, providing a well-rounded perspective on community organizing and holistic wellbeing.

• Hands-On Experiences: My early education at College of the Redwoods immersed me in artistic disciplines such as welding, carpentry, and interior design. These courses allowed me to take art off the page and into functional forms, illustrating the infinite ways to tell stories and convey messages. This hands-on approach nourished my ability to see both the larger picture and the finer details, fostering a keen eye for flow and cohesion.
  
  

• Herbalism Studies: At the Dandelion Herbal Center, I immersed myself in a 10-month herbalism program, learning to see the interconnectedness of all things. This program illuminated the importance of our relationships with plants, the environment, and our bodies. Through the lens of herbalism, I came to appreciate the synergy between natural wellness, community health, and personal care—an ethos that informs all my work.
  
  

• Diverse Work Experiences: From working at farmers' markets and as a nanny to apprenticing with a general contractor and collaborating with an acupuncturist, my career journey has been a mosaic of roles. Each position has emphasized the necessity of teamwork, communication, and face-to-face interaction. My time in these roles affirmed my passion for being part of a supportive team and the nourishing power of in-person connections.
  
  

• Art and Communication: My Associate’s Degree in Fine Arts from College of the Redwoods instilled in me an appreciation for the limitless possibilities of artistic expression. Art has become a vital tool in my work, helping to convey meaningful messages and create emotional resonance in community initiatives.
  
  

Key Projects and Initiatives

Recent projects such as the Blue Zones Walking Group and the Womb Collective reflect my dedication to fostering holistic wellness and connection. These initiatives emphasize the power of shared experiences, whether through walking and conversation or exploring holistic approaches to women’s health. My work underscores the value of togetherness, holistic approaches to all aspects of life, and our connection to the natural world through outdoor recreation, gardening, herbalism, and the simple yet profound act of sharing tea—a universal symbol of togetherness that often sparks meaningful conversations.

Community and Academic Service

• Event Organization and Leadership: Hosting large-scale events like the Tending Reciprocity gathering has honed my skills in event planning, public speaking, and team collaboration. These experiences highlight my ability to bring people together to celebrate shared goals and values.

• Humboldt Parent Hive: Creating a support group for parents, fostering community connection and resource sharing. This group was aimed at creating hubs of families that could build connection and support through child care trades, group child care, and other meaningful gatherings.
  
  

• Strategic Alignment and Resource Allocation: My background in communications has equipped me to align diverse resources and strategies to achieve impactful outcomes. Whether working with local organizations or coordinating community events, I excel at creating cohesion and synergy.
  
  

• Team Building and Collaboration: I thrive in environments that prioritize teamwork and active participation. Building strong bonds between individuals, organizations, and systems is central to my work, fostering a culture of belonging and mutual support.
  
  

Future Aspirations

As I continue my interdisciplinary studies and community work, my goals remain rooted in deep connection and involvement with both people and the planet. I aspire to:

• Be an advocate for togetherness and belonging, addressing the challenges of hyper-individualism and societal division.

• Organize and lead initiatives that strengthen community resilience and wholistic wellness.

• Build bridges between technology and traditional practices, fostering innovation while honoring heritage.

• Create spaces for collaboration that blend rural and urban perspectives, emphasizing inclusivity and accessibility.

• Continue integrating education with personal and professional goals, focusing on community resilience and organizing events.

• Expand skills through internships, workshops, and hands-on learning in communication, facilitation, and team-building practices.

Through a synthesis of education, experience, and passion, I aim to nurture relationships, support wellness, and inspire a culture of collaboration that celebrates the richness of our interconnected world.