- Hometown: Hampden-Sydney, Va.
- Role: Chief principal policy analyst in the Research Division of Nevada’s Legislative Counsel Bureau
- Years of legislative service: 15
“Keep your ears open, listen to diverse perspectives, and remember, the best response isn’t always the one you came up with.”
Thornton
Why did you choose to work at the Legislature?
It’s the insider view of democracy in action that keeps me coming back.
What skill or talent are you most proud of?
The legislative process is never predictable. Things change in an instant, priorities shift and unexpected challenges arise. I’m proud of my ability to adapt to these changes, to stay calm under pressure and to find creative solutions on the fly.
What’s the best advice you were ever given?
An old staffer once told me, “Don’t fall in love with your own solutions.” It’s tempting to get attached, but the best solutions often come from unlikely places. So, keep your ears open, listen to diverse perspectives, and remember, the best response isn’t always the one you came up with.
Who or what inspires you?
Skiing on a bluebird powder day.
What’s one thing you love about your state or territory?
The access to the outdoors and the pristine wilderness in Nevada is incomparable.
What are you currently reading/listening to/watching?
I am reading “We were the Mulvaneys,” by Joyce Carol Oates, and watching “Outlander.”
This interview has been edited for length and clarity. Use the email icon above to suggest a legislative staffer for the “Staff Snapshots” series.