Bobcat Stories

What's a fun or surprising fact that most people at the school might not know about you?

Before the pandemic, my husband and I had a tradition of travelling to one international destination every year. We've visited Cuba, France, the United Kingdom, Mexico, and Canada together! We plan to expand into other parts of Europe and Asia in the next couple of years. Recommendations welcome!

Outside of school, how do you like to spend your free time? Any hobbies or interests you'd like to share?

I am a mom of two young boys and two old dogs, so much of my time is spent with them exploring the outdoors, growing flowers and food in our garden, and travelling to visit family and friends across the country. When I actually have true alone time, I love to sit with a good novel, bake something delicious, or do interior design projects around my house.

Share a brief overview of your academic and professional journey that led you to Bosque School.

My path is a good reminder that what you choose to study in undergrad does not necessarily set your future plans in stone. My bachelor's degree in journalism has been the least-used of all my studies! I also minored in law and public policy and Spanish language and culture, both of which I have used more than my major during my time working in law firms and in counseling. My real passion was discovered in graduate school, where I earned a master of Arts in mental health counseling from the University of Arizona and expanded my focus to include school counseling curriculum from Highlands. When I left my hometown for journalism school at 18, I would have never dreamed that by 30 I would be somebody's therapist! I'm so grateful for the clinical work that led me to schools, especially Bosque School, where well-being is at the forefront. Well-being practices can help prevent much of the pain my adult clients experience.

Do you have any pets?

I have two dogs: an 11-year-old angel named Brady and a seven-year-old rascal named Ansel. Both are American Staffordshire Terrier mixes. Brady is my soulmate, and Ansel is my husband's. I rescued Brady (aka Sweet Brown Prince, Brady Boy, Chocolate Handsome) 10 years ago when I was deeply grieving the loss of my partner, and he rescued me right back! He's been with me through meeting my husband, marriage, graduate school, having our babies, moving states, and changing careers. He's the most loyal companion I could have ever asked for, and we make sure that he gets showered with love and treats every day now that he's getting older. He's a treasure!

Can you share a specific instance where you felt a strong connection with a student or witnessed a notable "aha" moment in the classroom?

For me, the toughest thing about building connections with students is that those connections eventually feel like they end when one of us transitions out of the school. I had a close bond with one sweet third-grader at my previous school, and leaving the school felt like leaving her behind. Luckily, Albuquerque has some real small-town benefits! One day, while I was at the zoo with my own kids, I ran into this student! We immediately recognized each other, ran in for a hug, and burst into tears! It was so amazing to see her again and check in on her well-being. Seeing that emotion even brought tears to the eyes of my 6'4, 280 lb. husband! It was a great reminder for me that those connections actually stay very much alive even after we've moved on.

What would you tell a family that is considering Bosque School?

To me, Bosque School is more than an investment in your child's education. Bosque School is actually an investment in their overall success as a person. Bosque School has a unique community and an unrivaled mission to support the well-being of individual students, the community they live in, and the environment that supports them. If you want your child's time in school to truly encompass their personal growth as well as their academic achievement, I can't think of a better spot for them than Bosque School!

Do you have any ongoing research, personal projects, or creative endeavors that you're passionate about and would like to share?

I recently completed the requirements for my independent counseling license, my school counseling credential and license. I need a break from outside projects! Although I always have a doctoral degree in the back of my mind...

If you could give one piece of advice to your students, what would it be?

As a counselor, I generally shy away from giving advice. In this case, I'll make an exception. If you feel like you aren't sure what you want to pursue, or you don't feel settled in who you are, try this. Think about the adult in your life that you most admire. What is it that draws you to them? What do they do that inspires you? If you can, make that person a mentor. Don't be afraid to reach out to them and ask questions. (Most adults LOVE these connections!) Research shows that when we have one adult mentor whose opinion we value and who is invested in our well-being, we have much better chances of achieving success. So cultivate that relationship and allow it to lift you up!