I have lived in Santa Rosa since 1973, and have attended the Center since 1995. My husband and I have two daughters and seven grandchildren. I am a graduate of Sonoma State University with a degree in management/accounting. I have worked as an auditor for the County of Sonoma, a loan officer for Bank of America and several mortgage companies, and as a business consultant. I left the active workforce in 1997. I have been a caregiver for aging parents, and have helped my grandchildren when circumstances warranted.

My husband’s interest in nature and wildlife photography has led us to many wonderful and remote locations in this country and around the world. I sometimes take photographs, read books, meditate, or just “sit” with people with whom I may have no common verbal language. In this context I have had amazing “communications.” My photographs have been on display in the Spirit Expressing Art Show.

I have been greatly influence by the observance of “A Season for Nonviolence” from January 30 to April 4 – 64 days to practice nonviolent communication and action. I passionately believe that beneath all circumstances lay tender human hearts. I challenge myself to be with ordinary people in this country and other countries, and I find loving hearts everywhere. It is my opportunity to practice the principals that we study here at the Center. Can I really hear another viewpoint? Can I really create a context of unity? Can I really love someone who sees the world very differently than I? I have put the principles of Science of Mind to the test and find that the tools we are learning and practicing here at our Center really do work, and it is an ongoing process.

Because this Center has given me so much, I welcome the opportunity to serve as a member of the board of trustees. I currently am a member of the Stewardship Core Committee, and am on the Spirit Expressing Art Show committee. I have also served on the Adventures of the Heart Pledge Program. I welcome the opportunity to focus on our spiritual community, and to keep the Center a vibrant force in our lives and in our greater community.