Hometown: Fenton, Mo.
Role: Director House Research, Missouri House of Representatives
Years of legislative service: Six
The best advice she’s ever received: “To say yes to new experiences and opportunities as they arise. It is just as important in your professional life as it is in your personal one.”
Why did you choose to work at the Legislature?
When most people think about the Legislature, I think they usually only consider the elected officials, but when I was in college I had the privilege of interning with the Scottish Parliament and I saw this whole other side of the process behind the scenes. When this job presented itself, I saw an opportunity to be of service to my state but also, in a time of such seemingly sharp political divide, to help preserve the integrity of our political system and ensure the continuity of government.
What skill or talent are you most proud of?
This job has taught me the importance of good communication: to make sure that I really understand what others are asking of me and to ensure that I am being clear in how I convey information to others. I think that is a skill that translates to all aspects of life.
Who or what inspires you?
I love the collaborative nature of our office. Seeing how we can work together and with other nonpartisan staff offices, especially when things are at their craziest, always makes me proud and very grateful to work with such a dedicated group of people who really care about the work they are doing.
What’s one thing you love about your state?
Forest Park. I grew up near St. Louis and spent a lot of time there as a kid. There is just so much to do: the Saint Louis Art Museum, Missouri History Museum, Saint Louis Zoo, the Muny (musical theater venue), even paddle boating—all together in this beautiful space. And most of it is free, so everyone can enjoy it. Missouri has a lot of great parks and outdoor spaces throughout the state.
What are you currently reading/listening to/watching?
Well, we have already started bill drafting for the upcoming session so I am reading a lot of bill drafts! We also have an informal office book club and next month’s theme is books related to food so I just started “Seed Money: Monsanto’s Past and Our Food Future,” by Bartow J. Elmore.
These email responses have been lightly edited for length and clarity.
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