Tell us a little about yourself:
I'm a retired trauma therapist, having held positions as the Clinical Director of a psychiatric hospital in Colorado Springs, CO, and owner of a private practice there that focused on trauma treatment. When living in Texas, I was the Director of Human Resources for the Dallas/Ft. Worth International Airport Board. I moved to Big Bear in 2013 following the death of my husband, to be closer to my only son Brian who lives with his wife in Los Angeles. I am completely enjoying retirement, after working 40 years, and love Big Bear because it reminds me of my lovely little mountain town in Colorado.
Why did you choose to join the DOVES board?
My education and training gave me knowledge about domestic violence, and I was honored to be asked to join the DOVES Board of Directors. I had treated a number of domestic violence victims in my private practice, and being associated with DOVES has allowed me to continue following my desire to reach out to survivors in this area. I was immediately impressed with the leadership and work being undertaken at DOVES and wanted to be a part of such a vital organization.
What is your favorite part about working with the DOVES organization?
The people who are involved in DOVES, from the Executive Director and staff, to the Board of Directors, to the volunteers who donate their time, to the survivors who seek DOVES' support-- are all dynamic and forward-thinking individuals who come together to create a positive change in a dangerous and cyclical problem in our society. It's a true privilege to be a part of this group.
What do you do for fun?
I love to make greeting cards for friends and family, with an occasional foray into craft-making such as soaps, candles and shower favors. My primary fun partner is my Golden Retriever, Sophie, who I rescued from Taiwan in 2016. She is my constant companion, and because she's deaf, we communicate through sign language—and lots and lots of hugs and kisses, of course.
