Where did you serve and what did you do?

I served in the United States Marine Corps, assigned to VMM-365 based on MCAS New River. My role was Airframes Mechanic and Corrosion Control Site manager on the V-22 Osprey, where I was responsible for maintenance, safety checks, shop training, and program management. I supported the mission through learning my job and learning it well, and I learned how to perform under pressure while taking care of the people to my left and right. That experience laid the foundation for my professional focus on calm, competent service in high-stakes environments.

How are you Still Serving?

I continue to serve by applying those same values, discipline, accountability, and mission-first teamwork, in nursing and in my pursuit of advanced practice as a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I serve patients and families through evidence-based care, advocate for safety and quality improvement, and support my colleagues through mentorship and strong team communication, especially in high-acuity situations. I also stay committed to the military and veteran community by supporting veterans at work/volunteering/mentoring/peer support/advocacy, and by carrying forward the standard of service the military demanded of me.

Why do you do it?

Because service gives my work purpose. The military taught me that leadership is responsibility, not rank, and that people perform best when they feel protected, prepared, and valued. In healthcare, I see the same need every day… patients in crisis and teams working under strain. I’m pursuing this path to expand my ability to help, clinically, emotionally, and systemically, so I can reduce suffering, improve outcomes, and strengthen the people doing the work. I’m grateful for the support I’ve received, and I want to return that investment by serving at a higher level for the rest of my career.