I was born in the US and grew up living next to the Long Island Sound. I've felt an affinity with the ocean ever since.

I hold a bachelor's degree in Psychology with a minor in film. After completing my studies I served over two years with the Peace Corps in El Salvador as an agroforestry volunteer, working on sustainable land management and alternatives to burning domestic waste. I also led a film-based initiative to help create awareness on environmental issues including deforestation, pollution, recycling, and climate change.

I began my career as a manager in the health care field but have decided to change course. I am currently living on a car-free island off the southern coast of Norway while pursuing my master's degree in global health at the University of Bergen. I'm writing my thesis on ocean microplastics.

My internship with GRID-Arendal gives me the opportunity to explore various topics such as marine litter's impact on ecosystems, global policy development through the UN frameworks, initiatives to mitigate the impact of microplastics, as well as further my passion for protecting the marine environment.

I enjoy playing the ukulele and guitar, hiking, and spending time with my two daughters.