I grew up in Chippewa Falls, Wisconsin, where sports were a core part of my life. I was a three-sport athlete for all of my childhood and high school years, pushing myself to compete, lead, and grow through hockey, softball, and volleyball, which all shaped my work ethic and identity.

I committed to Saint Mary’s University fully expecting to continue my athletic journey, but after going into septic shock, everything changed. What I thought would be four years defined by competition and training became a moment of forced pause. Stepping away from sports was a painful shift. It meant letting go of a world I’d built my identity around and figuring out who I was without the jersey, the team, and the routine that shaped me.

While stepping back was a major life shift, it also opened space for me to discover new passions. With more time outside of sports, I found myself drawn to hospitality, creativity, and storytelling. I began exploring design, digital media, event work, and the experience of bringing people together in meaningful ways. What started as something new to fill a void has become the direction I feel most inspired by. I love connecting with others through visual work, thoughtful communication, and creating experiences that make people feel welcome, seen, and included.