Job Description:
Medicaid service coordinator at ARISE
Education: Cazenovia College, B.A.S. liberal arts/social institutions
Civic Leadership: Division VP, Phoenix Little League; den leader, Cub Scout Troop 750; fundraising coordinator and coach, Phoenix Pop Warner Football; soccer coach

What made you pursue a career working with the mentally disabled?
"I was introduced to it when I was in college. I was a tutor and a peer counselor. After I was married, I got back into human services. It's a nice feeling to help others."
Why do you have such an interest in youth sports?
"I believe children need good role models and a nice solid support system. Through sports they create self-esteem and good friendships. On a personal level I lost my father at a very young age, so being involved with youth has always been something that's a part of me."
What drove you to become an educator in your field?
"I was a mental health counselor at St. Joe's and had gone to a seminar on mental health patients who cycle back through the hospital. We started a support group for those who were in and out of hospitals. We wanted them to become comfortable with the doctors. So often people don't keep track of what's going on in their lives. We were trying to prevent re-hospitalization in order to give them better care."
Where do you see yourself in 10 years?
"I truly enjoy where I am at ARISE and it's a growing company."