I am a lifelong resident of South Carolina. I grew up in Clemson and graduated from Clemson University with a degree in special ed and elementary education. I’ve lived in Columbia since college and spent five years here as a special education teacher before joining the staff of Engaging Disability. I am a member of Cornerstone Presbyterian Church. I love learning and am working on a certificate of disability and theology, toward a master’s degree, from Western Theological Seminary.
I’ve been blessed by many experiences with people who have disabilities that have shaped me to love like Christ loves. I served for eight summers at camps for children and adults with intellectual disability and speech and hearing impairments. At Clemson Presbyterian Church, where I grew up, and since I have lived in Columbia as well, I have helped kids with disabilities learn the gospel while helping their families be loved and embraced by the church community.
I have found such joy in knowing and learning with kids with disabilities in my teaching career and with adults who have disabilities by living in community with them. I’ve learned that my real purpose is not to serve but to love and be loved in return. My faith and understanding of Jesus have grown so much in the time I’ve spent in this field. Now I’m excited to be able to use what I’ve learned through my experiences to make a positive impact in the denomination I grew up in.
I’m thankful to have been taught, loved, and shepherded in the PCA for my whole life. I am thrilled to have opportunities now to both teach and learn alongside churches in the PCA and beyond, growing together in knowledge and practice of being the Church to ALL of God’s people.
