I am a Professional Landscape Architect (PLA) and project management professional with over twelve years of experience, primarily in urban park design. My work in parks, both in the private and non-profit sectors, has given me the opportunity to work with a variety of clients; including community groups, elected officials, environmental organizations, as well as state, federal, and local agencies. It has enriched my understanding of complex issues around park access, equity, and racial justice. It has energized my commitment to protect and preserve the legacy of natural and cultural inheritances entrusted to us by past generations. In short, this work has changed me, though my core motivation remains constant: a commitment to public service through authentic community partnership. My professional relationship with parks began during my tenure as a designer at Pond, where I worked with both state and local park agencies, designing new facilities and refreshing aging ones. It was through that work that I came to know Park Pride and their model of authentic community partnership. Instead of presenting in conference rooms, I was invited into living rooms to collaborate directly with the people who would be impacted by our work. These experiences reinvigorated my commitment to community engagement.Since joining Park Pride as Director of Park Visioning, I have overseen a period of rapid departmental growth and expansion into new collaborative partnerships with national and local organizations that promote equity, increase awareness, and build trust. I have also sharpened my project management and budget oversight skills by managing the construction of two new parks, both of which were delivered on budget in high-pressure situations. I have managed and motivated a small team of dedicated professionals by building a culture of collaboration and respect, and I have engaged with and supported dozens of community groups who care deeply about their parks. Much of this engagement, I am proud to say, has resulted in real-world positive change.