How do you like to spend your time when you're not working with SMFPI? Where do you work?

My full time job for the past ten years has been homeschooling my four children. Right now I have two left at home. I love learning alongside them, especially history and literature. Our family enjoys RVing during the summer. Last August we took a cross country trip to bring my son to college in Wyoming. We hope to make the journey again this year.



How long have you been involved with SMFPI?

My family members have been SMFPI prayer warriors from the start. I remember flipping pancakes with my kids in the Cathedral basement for some of the earliest fundraising events. I have been officially assisting with SMFPI events for almost a year now and I joined the board at the start of 2025.



Is there anything else you would like to share?

At SMFPI, we are being encouraged to "Dream big." I am in awe of the connections that God has orchestrated through the work being done. No task is too small--THEY ALL MATTER. If it's on your heart to help in some way, please answer the call and find out how you are connected.

What inspired you to join the board of St. Michael’s Family Protection Institute?

I admire the broad mission of St. Michael's Family Protection Institute. Protecting families is important work. I have witnessed the devastating implications of not protecting families and I am grateful to be a part of this "Mission from God."



What are the biggest challenges facing families in Rochester, and how is SMFPI addressing them?

I am encouraged that SMFPI is helping to bring Catholic health care back to Rochester. In my family's health journey, we have not always felt supported by doctors and their support teams. I have had many uncomfortable and confrontational conversations in what should have been healing environments.

At the SMFPI events that I have been a part of, I have witnessed the truth being shared with love. I have seen collaboration with compassion. My hope grows as SMFPI endeavors to share its mission with future generations. We recently hosted our Breakthrough retreat designed specifically to inspire teens and young adults. Our speakers shared their stories, presented the truth and challenged attendees to do hard things. Coming together on that Saturday when there were so many other choices was a hard thing, but the messages that were shared will help change our community one family at a time.