I’m proud to have called McHenry home since 1979, when my family moved here just in time for me to start 6th grade at Parkland Middle School and later attend McHenry East Campus. McHenry has been the foundation of my life—I’ve raised my family here and built a thriving small business, Think Big Go Local, Inc.

My commitment to McHenry extends far beyond business. I’ve been deeply involved in our community, dedicating my time and energy to causes that matter most to our residents:

• Volunteer Leadership: Co-chair of the City of McHenry’s Economic Development Commission, committee member for McHenry’s Fiesta Days & Rise Up Music Festival, and HOA President of Legend Lakes Condo Assocation and Board member of the Legend Lakes Master Association, President of GiGi’s Playhouse McHenry County.
• Educational Impact: Two-term member of the Foundation Board at McHenry County College, where I’ve been honored as a Distinguished Graduate, chaired the MCC Alumni Association and now serve as an MCC instructor and mentor for the dual credit program. I’ve also mentored and taught high school students through District 156’s IncubatorU program. In 2019 I was honored to be able to share my journey as an entrepreneur while suffering the loss of my son as a TedX speaker.
• Board Service: Former board member for McHenry County Workforce Development Board, Big Brothers Big Sisters, Not For Profit Resources, and the Senior Care Volunteer Network.
• Recognition: Graduate of the Leadership Greater McHenry County program and recipient of the Shaw Media McHenry County Woman of Distinction award.

In 2018, I proudly served as Alderwoman for Ward 4, where I was a strong advocate for:

• Business development and residential growth.
• Improved collaboration between local governmental agencies.
• Enhancing our school districts to benefit students and families.

I established strong relationships with city staff, Mayor Wayne Jett, local business leaders, and residents. During the pandemic, I worked with the city’s Economic Development Department to develop and manage the Shop n’ Dine McHenry program, supporting local businesses in one of their most challenging times.