- Hometown: Salem, Ore.
- Role: Principal legislative analyst in Oregon’s Legislative Policy and Research Office
- Years of legislative service: 16 years in Oregon and two in Washington
“Seeing the public fill the halls and come to committee meetings to share their passion and stories always revitalizes me and helps me remember why I do this work.”
Reiley
Why did you choose to work at the Legislature?
I did an undergraduate internship with the Washington State Legislature and fell in love with the legislative process. Working as a nonpartisan analyst in Oregon with the Legislative Policy and Research Office has allowed me to blend my love for the legislative process, my interest and experience with environmental policy, and my passion for helping make the process more accessible to people.
What skill or talent are you most proud of?
I am most proud of my ability to communicate clearly with people from all different backgrounds. It is important in my job to listen and understand people’s objectives and intentions in order to help create a process, plan or policy solution that meets people’s objectives.
What’s the best advice you were ever given?
Breathe… It is very simple, but taking a deep breath and slowing down for a minute always seems to recenter and focus me.
Who or what inspires you?
It might be odd, but walking into our building always helps remind me of why I am here. Seeing the public fill the halls and come to committee meetings to share their passion and stories always revitalizes me and helps me remember why I do this work.
What’s one thing you love about your state or territory?
I love all the seasons in Oregon, but fall and spring are particularly beautiful. Those are my favorite times of year to get outside and get some camping in with my husband, two kids and our dog.
What are you currently reading/listening to/watching?
I love throwing pottery on a wheel. It is the perfect mix of being creative and meditative. Recently, I started watching “The Great Pottery Throw Down” and I love it!
This interview has been edited for length and clarity. Use the email icon above to suggest a legislative staffer for the “Staff Snapshots” series.