I'm a physician assistant (PA) specializing in pediatric and young adult oncology. I, and the nurse practitioners from the advanced practice provider (APP) team within the Division of Oncology, work alongside the oncology hospitalists and the main attendings daily to ensure the best and most comprehensive family-centered care for our patients. I enjoy meeting patients where they are and learning about their interests, hobbies, etc. It can be scary for patients of any age to be hospitalized, so developing that trust and relationship is essential.

My interest in this work stems from personal experiences with PAs and my passion and interest in biology and medicine. I worked as a patient care assistant (PCA) at Cincinnati Children's in the oncology unit before going to PA school. The science and medicine of oncology, as well as the ability for us as healthcare providers to come alongside patients and family members during one of the most challenging times in their lives, drew me to this specialty. I have a strong desire to work with children and young adults. Their resiliency, joy and playful attitudes are why I love working with this population.

I attended Olivet Nazarene University and graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Biology with a minor in chemistry. I pursued my Master of Physician Assistant Studies (MPAS) in Cincinnati at Mount St. Joseph University. Upon graduating from PA school, I was awarded The Outstanding PA Student Award given to a student "demonstrating compassion, commitment and maturity in the practice of medicine and their interaction with others, which personifies the values inherent in the Mount St. Joseph University PA Program Mission."

When I'm not at work, I love to hike, garden, cook and bake. I recently taught myself how to crochet!