Ignite Team Bios

Home Parish:

St. Jude Catholic Church

Family:
I was born and raised in Peoria, IL and grew up as a parishioner at St. Thomas the

Apostle Church alongside my parents, sisters, and many aunts, uncles, and cousins. I attended

elementary school at St. Thomas and went on to Peoria Notre Dame High School where my

sisters and I were each actively involved in varying sports, clubs, and community service

projects. My husband Pat, also a PND Graduate, and I were married in 2012 and have 2

daughters - Emma (4) and Lucy (2). Emma attends the full day preschool program at St. Jude.

It has been a joy watching our girls grow in faith and we have certainly found our new “home”

within the St. Jude community!

I graduated with my bachelor’s degree from the Saint Louis University in Special Education

(Mild to Moderate Disabilities for preschool through age 21). After graduation, I moved back

home to Peoria where I started my first job as a special education teacher for SEAPCO at

Farmington School District. After several years of teaching, I decided to further my education by

attending school in the evenings and on weekends at Illinois State University. I now have my

masters in Special Education and as well as my Director of Special Education certificate.

Career/Reason for supporting Fire Foundation:

I have been involved in public school education for over 12 years and am currently a Special Education Administrator for SEAPCO. I am blessed to have a career that provides me with the opportunity to facilitate positive educational experiences for many amazing students, staff, and parents. I truly love what I do - and can proudly say that my work in special education has helped me to grow as the person I am today. I now serve on the Education Commission at St. Jude and look forward to volunteering my time to help with the Fire Foundation Ignite Team. Inclusive education is defined by both a culture

and a mindset that all students can learn and succeed. As a parent and parishioner of the St.

Jude community, I look forward to supporting the Fire Foundation’s mission of building

acceptance and understanding as well as providing opportunities to support inclusive education