At work I wear many different hats at Legal Aid: I fundraise, coordinate local pro bono efforts, handle the marketing and public relations, and as an attorney, I handle a full load of cases for clients.
Home and family Norfolk; I have a Dad, Mom, and older brother out in Arizona, and am currently in between pets - I lost my beloved Scottish terrier, Beans LaChoy, last year.
Volunteer activities Actively involved with P.E.O., an organization that provides scholarships and grants for women, and previously involved with Volunteers of America, who assist the area's homeless. I also enjoy working with several of the local bar associations in various capacities, like planning Continuing Legal Education programs.
Balancing time I try to never spread myself too thin in one area, and make sure I build in time to recharge my battery. I also try to have some fun along the way, so that I won't burn out.
Choosing organizations A particular cause that appeals to me is important, but as is said time and time again, it's more often the people involved in a cause who bring me in.
Advice for young people Be conscious that all of your actions, both in and out of the workplace, online and in real-life, are building your personal brand - how do you want to be known?
Proudest accomplishment Becoming an independent adult, with a lot of tenacity, to boot. I was born with a physical disability, and when I was younger, my doctor told me that I would likely not be able to do much for myself, like feed myself or be able to write using a pen or pencil. I never let that stop me, and I've showed the world that there's not much I can't do.
Professional goal in five years To have a name and reputation in the community that are synonymous with compassion, integrity and proficiency in the law.
The one thing I'd change about Hampton Roads Expanding the Tide - how great would it be to ride the Tide to Town Center, the airport or even the beach.
Dream dinner party Margaret Atwood, Anthony Bourdain, Salvador Dali and my dog Beans.
Downtime What's that? Kidding aside, my passion is travel. I love seeing new places and am fascinated by different cultures. Receiving an atlas at age 5 sparked my wanderlust, which continues to pull me to different parts of the globe. My most recent adventure: South Africa.
What really gets under my skin? People who refuse to take responsibility for and ownership of their lives and decisions they have made, and then complain about it all.
