Why I Lead with Heart — And Why I’m Getting My Doctorate

When I started American Advocacy Group over ten years ago, I had one simple mission: to help families of children with disabilities get the support they deserve. I knew how hard it could be to navigate the system, and I wanted to build something that made it easier, kinder, and more human.

Along the way, I’ve learned that leadership isn’t just about making decisions or running a business—it’s about living your values. Every single day, I try to lead with compassion, empathy, authenticity, mindfulness, integrity, and hope. These aren’t just nice words on a page. They guide how I show up for my team, how I make choices, and how I support the families we serve.

Let me tell you what that looks like in real life:

  • Compassion means I take the time to understand what others are going through. When someone on my team is struggling, I listen and make space for them.
  • Empathy helps me connect with families and truly hear their worries, fears, and hopes.
  • Authenticity keeps me honest. If I make a mistake, I own it. If I don’t have the answer, I say so.
  • Mindfulness means I pause before I act, making sure my decisions reflect the care I have for others.
  • Integrity is doing the right thing—even when no one is watching, even if it’s hard.
  • And hope is what keeps me going. I believe things can always get better. And I try to help others believe that too.

These values are the heart of everything I do. As our mission grows, I want to grow too.

That’s why I’m getting my Doctorate in Organizational Leadership.

I want to sharpen my skills, expand my knowledge, and make sure I’m leading this organization—and any future ones—with as much wisdom and care as possible. I don’t just want to lead; I want to lead well. I want to be the kind of leader who creates lasting change, not just for the people on my team, but for every family we touch.

Getting this doctorate is about more than a degree. It’s about honoring the people who trust us with their stories, their struggles, and their dreams. It’s about becoming the best version of myself—so I can help others do the same.

Thanks for being part of the journey.