Where are you from and how long have you lived in Horry County?
I am a proud native of Horry County, born and raised in Conway, SC.
What does a typical day look like for you?
I spend my time following up with partners, checking in with childcare centers to ensure they have the resources and support they need, scheduling meetings with potential collaborators, and spreading the word about the importance of kindergarten readiness. Each day is focused on making an impact and ensuring that every child in our community has a strong foundation to succeed.
What inspired you to work at UWHC?
As someone deeply rooted in Horry County, I’ve always been passionate about giving back to the community that raised me. Working at United Way of Horry County (UWHC) allowed me to channel that passion into tangible action. I was drawn to UWHC’s commitment to filling service gaps and addressing unmet needs in our community. Their vision to create a stronger, more equitable Horry County aligns with my own desire to contribute to the success of our hometown.
What is your favorite part of your job?
Without a doubt, my favorite part of my job is meeting new people and making connections. I thrive on building relationships and finding ways to connect the dots between services, partners, and the people who need them most. It’s incredibly rewarding to see how those connections create a ripple effect, improving lives across our county.
What’s one thing most people don’t know about you?
Most people don’t know that I studied vocal performance and trained to be an opera singer. Music was my first passion, and it taught me discipline, creativity, and the power of storytelling—skills that I carry into my work today.
What are your hobbies or activities you enjoy outside of work?
I love exploring new places and flavors, so eating out and traveling are at the top of my list. Whether it’s discovering a hidden gem in our local restaurant scene or planning a family getaway, I’m always excited about experiences that bring people together.
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?
The best advice I’ve ever received is, “A delay is not a denial—keep pushing and hold on!” This reminder has carried me through challenges, teaching me resilience and patience while staying focused on the bigger picture.
What’s the one way you think Horry County can make a difference together?
In my role as the Early Education Program Manager, I believe that Horry County has incredible potential to rally together and tackle kindergarten readiness by promoting The Basics principles. If we could fully saturate our county with these simple, yet transformative principles, the possibilities for our students’ academic success would be boundless. By uniting around this mission, we can lay a strong foundation for the future of our children and our community.