Tell us about yourself.

Born and raised in one of the most vibrant cities in the world, Austin, Texas, I am often asked how I ended up in Washington, DC. Great question—I wish I knew the answer! I am confident and thankful that life brought me to DC to ultimately have the opportunity to join the JDRF team.

I graduated from The University of Texas in 2015 with a bachelor’s in Communication Studies with an emphasis on Human Relations and a minor in Business Foundations. A few of my favorite things include trying new restaurants, spending time with friends and family, and hiking. If we were to have a “straight-face” competition, I can promise you that you will always win!

Describe your history with type 1 and your relationship with JDRF.

If you asked me two years ago to tell you about type 1 diabetes, I would hesitate and throw out some buzz words like “finger-pricking” and “shots.” Despite the 1.25 million Americans living with T1D, it was not until two years ago, when I started dating someone with type 1 diabetes, that I was able to put a name and face to the autoimmune disease. Dating Parker has given me close-up exposure into the continual effects and realities of living with T1D.

My relationship with JDRF began when Google was consistently redirecting me to www.jdrf.org with answers to my endless questions about type 1 diabetes. I had a desire to know the ins and outs of this disease. In June of 2015, I had the opportunity to be a part of creating and growing a team for the JDRF One Walk, Washington D.C. in support of Parker and his two siblings, Hunter and Mary Frances, who also live with type 1. Immersing myself in the JDRF community amplified my desire to be a part of a devoted and inspiring group that is fighting hard for a brighter future for those affected by T1D. The mission and work of JDRF is a profound vision of hope in the lives of loved ones and the T1D community as a whole, and I am blessed beyond measure to be a part of it.

What would you say to encourage someone who does not have a direct T1D connection to volunteer with the chapter?

We all have a connection to someone with an autoimmune disease. Whether it is type 1 diabetes or not, there is significant value found in advancing research for all autoimmune diseases and JDRF excels in this. The JDRF family is kind, dedicated, and mission-focused and I can assure you that your time and efforts with JDRF will be well-spent.

What are you most excited about with your new job at JDRF?

Purpose. I strive to find purpose in my work and it is one of my greatest joys to wake up each day with the hope that our work as a team is improving the lives of those living with type 1 diabetes and will ultimately lead to a cure.