My childhood was spent exploring and enjoying the outdoors in central Iowa. I grew up in an old farmhouse, surrounded by corn and soybean fields. From a young age, I learned the importance of taking care of the land and all the ways it can give back. Thanks to my family and community, I know personally the value of farming communities throughout the Midwest and how their efforts feed the region and the country. 

After high school, I left my hometown of Knoxville, Iowa to attend the University of Iowa, where I studied public health and worked in research. These experiences helped me find my passion and led me to Vermont Law School, where I will soon be graduating with my master’s degree in food and agriculture law and policy. My education has prepared me to advocate for rural communities and for positive policy change. So much of my heart calls rural Iowa home, and this is why I advocate for rural communities so passionately. 

My husband and I now live back in our hometown, close to our families and loved ones. In my free time, I enjoy gardening, baking, crocheting, and spending time with my husband and our cat and dog. We also love hosting holiday celebrations and parties for our friends and family, especially when we get to share food from our garden along with a new board game.