Grew up in Antioch, Concord, and Oakley. Graduated Antioch High School with an academic scholarship to the Women's College at Columbia University.

Struggled with infertility for more than two years.

When my twins were five, my dear college friend lost the ability to have any more kids due to cancer. I offered and became her and her husband's surrogate. 

Moved to Pleasanton in 2010 with my husband and boy/girl twins. Live in the Vintage Hills neighborhood.

25 years after undergrad, at the age of 48, returned to college and got a Master's in International and European Governance from Leiden University in The Hague.

I'm a breast cancer survivor. Diagnosed two weeks after my daughter was diagnosed with RP. My MDs had a treatment plan for my cancer, but nothing was available for Cate.

Studied Political Economy - the study of the effects of public policy on the economy. Worked two jobs and led many student organizations.​

Influence of state-level Secretaries of State (SOS) on the fair administration of elections. Will an SOS use their power to give an advantage to a candidate of their own party? I found, no. But "independent commissions" appeared to favor their own party.

Following daughter's diagnosis with retinitis pigmentosa (RP), launched nonprofit to raise awareness and funds for research.

Worked 17+ years in Business & IT Consulting. Most project assignments were with Healthcare clients. Worked out of offices in NYC, Chicago, Dallas, and San Francisco. 

Worked for DA in the Netherlands. DA registers expats and encourages voter turnout. Committees: voter registrations, LGBTQ Caucus, Woman's Caucus, and Communications. 

Upon return to U.S., worked for LightHouse for the Blind for 3 years. Led Social Enterprise rollout and Workforce Development.