My Passions
Animal Rescues
For almost four years I've volunteered at Cat's Cradle in downtown Harrisonburg donating time as a photographer and helping manage the website, databases, social media accounts, and customer relations, on phone and in-person. During my time with the organization I've also fostered over a dozen cats before they went up for adoption. This involved spending time socializing those who were feral and/or shy cats and caring for sick cats all while hosting them in my home. My love for the organization came from their no-kill policies, determination to assist local households with pet assistance, and their belief that all animals no matter their temperament could find a home.
Mental Health Awareness
I am a strong believer in breaking down the stigma surrounding mental health and encouraging acceptance for those struggling with mental illnesses. I became involved with my university's chapter of the To Write Love On Her Arms organization during my freshman year at James Madison. My senior year I was elected to the OutReach Coordinator position and became responsible for organizing community events that tackle the stigma surrounding mental health, leading education and fundraising efforts for mental health in the JMU community, connecting students to local resources, and assisting with the campaigns of the national nonprofit.
Magazine Production
As a lover of storytelling it was no surprise when I found myself volunteering my time for 22807 Magazine my sophomore year. This Pacemaker winning publication focuses on the intertwining arts and culture of Harrisonburg and the JMU community through strong features stories, powerful photography, YouTube shows, weekly blogs and podcasts. While I began as a staff photographer I rose through the ranks to photo editor and eventually executive editor my senior year leading a staff of 12 students, establishing the editorial vision and supervising the direction of the print and online magazine.
