I am originally from the Chicago suburbs but have lived in Lisbon, Portugal, for almost 2 years and here in central Wisconsin for 13 years. I am grateful to be married to my best friend, Dan, and also grateful to be a mom to our daughter, Abby, and son, Jared. Working with children and letting them know they are special and dearly loved by God is a passion of mine. In my free time I enjoy baking, gardening, walking, and hanging out with my family.

The school’s theme this year is “Connected” (John 15:5). Share a time in your life when you saw the importance of being connected to Jesus.

I can’t imagine living life and not being connected to Jesus. I am so thankful that He is faithful and with me through all of life’s challenges. When our family moved overseas to do mission work in Portugal, there were so many challenges and unknowns. Staying connected to Jesus was my anchor to get me through, and I’m still holding on.

What do you think the worst smell is?

Oh my. So many things to choose from. I’ll go with tuna fish. Not a fan.

Hometown: South Elgin, IL
Bachelor’s Degree: Elementary Education, Trinity International University