Hometown: Concord, N.H.
Role: Assistant director, House Committee Services, New Hampshire House of Representatives
NCSL involvement: Staff vice chair, Standing Committee on Education
Years of legislative service: Six
Best advice she’s ever received: “‘Bloom where you’re planted.’ As a former military wife, that means doing the most good wherever you are, in whatever role. I’ve found it leads to great experiences and opportunities.”
Why did you choose to work at the legislature?
The legislature is a perfect fit for me because I have always been drawn to public service and enjoy problem solving—the essence of legislative work.
What skill or talent are you most proud of?
I am proud of my ability to see the good in things.
Who or what inspires you?
I am inspired by anyone who refuses to allow personal challenges to stand in the way of their goals.
What’s one thing you love about your state?
It is very difficult to choose just one thing I love about New Hampshire, but I’d have to say its natural beauty. We have four distinct seasons that each provide a unique backdrop to life in the Granite State.
What are you currently reading/listening to/watching?
I am currently reading “Hill Women: Finding Family and a Way Forward in the Appalachian Mountains.” And I am currently watching HBO’s “Julia” and Baltimore Orioles baseball (whose record sometimes challenges my ability to see the good).
What are some of the priorities of your NCSL Standing Committee?
Education has been impacted in so many ways by the pandemic. Addressing teacher shortages and student well-being is very important as we move forward.
This interview has been edited for length and clarity.
For its “Staff Snapshots” series, State Legislatures News is asking legislative staff about their role in the legislature. To suggest a staffer for this series, please use the email icon above to contact Holly South.