Growing up on an island, I’ve had the opportunity to learn the ropes of small business and how it relates to tourism economies. I’ve enjoyed a career at an interior design firm on Hilton Head Island for the better part of the last decade. Collaborating with vendors and clients on a daily basis has given me the opportunity to wear multiple hats and create décor solutions for individuals looking to generate profit through rental properties. From 2015-17, I had the unique opportunity to complete an independent study with one of the Bush administration’s presidential portrait artists. During this multi-year study, I became proficient in charcoal and acrylic mediums, assisted with local art shows and project editing. Paired with my BFA in Graphic Design from SCAD, this skillset has given me a greater understanding of how print and digital art correlate; giving me the foundation to create innovative designs through mixed media.The granddaughter of a coastal stratigraphy pioneer and the daughter of a biochemist turned social worker, I have great curiosity for how wellbeing stems from our surroundings, physical/mental health and social equity. In light of this, I am currently pursuing a master’s degree in Creative Business Leadership; a degree which I plan to utilize by helping businesses create and apply functional design that benefits their communities and helps consumers live well.