I was born into a large family in the suburbs of Indianapolis Indiana. Growing up in a middle class family I was taught the value of a dollar through labor, loyalty, and work ethic. I entered Ball State University and was quickly enamored with the labor-intensive nature of the jewelry and metalsmithing field. Guided by undergraduate mentor and metals professor, Patricia Nelson, I earned a BFA in 2005. Due to my quest for knowledge and critical feedback, I continued my education by entering graduate school at the University of Wisconsin-Madison where I was awarded an assistantship working under Lisa Gralnick. In 2008, I received an MFA with national honors and exhibitions, including the national Women’s Jewelry Association Student Scholarship. Following graduate school I moved to Chicago where I was a year long resident artist at Lillstreet Art Center. In 2009, I accepted a full-time lecturer and metals shop technician position at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee. In August 2010 I made a pivotal move to Philadelphia where I currently reside. In Philadelphia I have continued teaching through adjunct lecturer opportunities while focusing on building my own business making and selling jewelry and artwork. The success of my business has allowed me to invest in the growth of equipment and space in my studio, while maintaining a rigorous schedule exhibiting to an international audience. My current artistic goals are to be influential in the field of jewelry and metalsmithing through innovation.

Female, born on September 28