I became a social worker in May 2015 after graduating from the University of Kentucky with my Master of Social Work degree. I spent six years in frontline child protective services in Kentucky’s Northeastern Region, where I worked closely with children and families during some of the most challenging moments of their lives. After that, I spent over three years with the Veterans Health Administration, supporting veterans and their families through HUD-VASH, acute care, hospice and palliative care, and the Caregiver Support Program. These experiences shaped my commitment to advocacy, caregiver support, and systems-informed practice. I currently work as a Social Services Specialist with the Office of Dementia Services, focusing on dementia education, caregiver support, and building dementia-friendly communities across Kentucky. I am also working toward my Doctorate of Social Work. Outside of work, I am the proud parent of two sons, a grandparent to a grandson and granddaughter, and the devoted owner of a dachshund who is truly my world.