How did you get started in your career field?

I graduated from Southern Illinois University School of Law in December 2014. From there, I began working as an appellate prosecutor and assistant special prosecutor for the State’s Attorneys Appellate Prosecutor’s Office, specializing in criminal law and procedure. Through my colleagues and supervisors at ILSAAP, I gained valuable skills in legal research and writing. I also had the opportunity to represent the people on appeal and in the trial court. Working for ILSAAP really launched my legal career in a positive way, and I am forever grateful for the doors it opened!

Can you give me a brief timeline of how your career led you to UIS?

While it may sound silly to some, I really love school! I jumped at the chance to serve as an adjunct professor at UIS in early 2022 in the legal studies department. Over time, my responsibilities as an adjunct grew, and I developed a larger body of courses for the department. I’m proud to have officially joined the legal studies department as a clinical assistant professor, where I can continue to grow a catalog of courses to help my students learn and succeed.

What do you like to do outside of work? 

I’m about nine months pregnant with my third child, so right now I really enjoy resting when I can. Normally, I’m very active and enjoy running. I ran track and cross-country in college, and last year I ran the Boston Marathon. When I’m not running, you can often find me walking with our Australian shepherd, Sisu, or on the sideline of a field somewhere for my sons.

What’s something important you’ve learned from your family?

Patience! Being a mom is hard work. Being a mom to two — almost three — energetic boys is even harder work. My boys always bring the fun, but they often bring the chaos, too. They remind me to savor the little things and to be patient in the wild moments.

Who do you call as soon as you hear good news?

My husband is always the first to hear any news, good or bad. He keeps me grounded and is my biggest cheerleader, both personally and professionally.