Rooted in Education

Education has been part of my life from the very beginning. My parents each experienced formative paths—my mom in Catholic school and my dad in boarding school—and quality education has always been a deeply held family value. My great-grandfather was the very first Dean of Students at the University of Michigan, and my mom founded and ran a preschool out of our home from the time I was a toddler until I went to college. Growing up in that environment taught me how a nurturing, creative space can shape a child’s world and inspired my lifelong belief in the power of education to foster growth and belonging.

Personal and Professional Perspective

As a parent of two teenagers, I bring both personal insight and professional experience to my work with families. I hold a B.A. in Sociology from Franklin & Marshall College and an M.A. in Counseling with a Career Development Emphasis from Santa Clara University. Before founding Grove, my career in public relations and corporate communications strengthened my skills in thoughtful listening, clear communication, and relationship building. My years as a stay-at-home mom also deepened my understanding of how children learn, grow, and find their place in the world. These experiences ground the compassionate, whole-child approach that guides my consulting practice.

Denver Experience

Since moving to Denver in 2009, I’ve been deeply engaged in the city’s educational landscape and have navigated a wide range of public and private school options—from preschool through high school. My family’s journey has included progressive, play-based programs; innovation schools; traditional and faith-based environments; and college-preparatory settings. I regularly visit schools across the Denver area to stay current on their performance, leadership, culture, teaching methodologies, student supports, and academic and extracurricular offerings. I also maintain a trusted network of specialists — including cognitive psychologists, mental health clinicians, occupational and speech therapists, college counselors, and tutors. This allows me to provide families with nuanced, up-to-date insight into the Denver Public Schools network and the private school community, as well as resources that support children’s growth and well-being.

Community Engagement

Over the years, I’ve found deep joy and connection through my involvement in Denver schools and parent communities. My volunteer work has included fundraising, classroom support, focus groups and parent leadership. I’ve served on the Collaborative School Committees at Steele Elementary School and Merrill Middle School, and have been an active member of The Denver Waldorf School, Stanley British Primary School, and Regis Jesuit School communities. I also attend parent workshops exploring topics such as executive functioning, digital literacy, social media, mental health, substance use, brain development, and emotional intelligence. Staying engaged in this way keeps me closely connected to the issues families face today and reinforces my belief in the power of strong, caring communities to help children — and parents — thrive.

The Heart of Grove

I created Grove Educational Consulting as a space where education, community, and whole-child development come together to support families in making one of the most important decisions in their child’s life. My goal is to guide families toward school environments where their children can learn, grow, and truly belong — with the warmth, reflection, and personal connection that are at the heart of Grove.