My life and career has followed two primary paths, my first passion being life sciences and the second being customer service. Both have relied upon by communication and problem-solving skills, as has my roll as primary care giver to two family members with Alzheimers. For my scientific endeavors, using my understanding of plant biology and biochemistry, I have continuing projects to bring rare and threatened plant species of culinary, ethnobotanical, and medical interest into non-traditional cultivation. In my customer service arena, I had almost a dozen years experience with Harrah's Cherokee Casino & Hotel including winning the property's highest service award, leading efforts to improve customer service training, and helping establish the Service Connection Center several years ago. These experiences continued while working and volunteering at the San Diego Zoo.