My mother is a teacher, which always made the classroom feel like a second home to me. Though I began my collegiate career in engineering, all that quickly changed after being invited by a friend to become a tutor. That experience ignited a passion that has led to a successful 13+ year career in K - 12 education, specifically middle school mathematics, where I've helped students overcome learning obstacles by leveraging best practices within the classroom. Each day I work towards creating an inclusive classroom environment and closing learning gaps through instruction design to meet all students' needs and ensure student success.While participating in the Leading for Equity and Justice certificate program at Eastern Michigan University, the instructors introduced me to various critical theory lenses, including culturally relevant pedagogy. This professional development experience led to my enrollment in the Educational Leadership and Counseling doctoral program at Eastern Michigan. My research is currently centered on shifting classroom instruction to capture diverse learners and creating a pipeline of minoritized and underserved students into STEM-related fields.My work has lead to presenting at district-wide professional development conferences, regional educational service agencies, and the University Council for Educational Administration's 34th Annual Convention.Outside of the classroom, I love visiting lighthouses and have a goal to see all 115 across Michigan. I also like to unwind by watching a bit of reality TV.