An American Story, Rooted in Monterey
Committed to Service
Like many young people in Monterey, I grew up in a military family. My mom served in the Navy for 20 years so we moved around the world and never lived anywhere long enough to grow roots. The central role the military played in our lives was a formative experience, but also an isolating one. That feeling of isolation led me to seek long-term connections and community in beautiful Monterey, where I have been honored to serve as a city councilmember since 2018, and as mayor since 2022.
I recently transitioned to a role in the Department of Veterans Affairs specializing in Human Resources, with a focus on Labor and Employee Relations, bringing expertise to serve our nation’s veterans. Prior to this, I worked at the Naval Postgraduate School (NPS) from 2010 to 2023, where I was honored with the Civilian Service Achievement Medal for exemplary service. As a Human Communication, Pre-Law graduate from Cal State Monterey Bay, I was inspired by other local graduates motivated to make our home a better place to live for all. As a Master of Business Administration graduate from NPS, I was honored to study critical-thinking and analysis with military officers serving in defense of our country.
When I arrived here on the Central Coast, I didn’t know how much this area would mean to me. I had finally found a community that accepted and loved me, and I knew I’d never want to live anywhere else. My partner Ivan and I bought our first home together in Monterey because of the beautiful environment — from the climate and landscape to the amazing community activists I’ve grown to love as my family. Through my community work on the Monterey Peninsula, I have truly found a lifelong home. My ongoing work with fellow community members was fundamental in my decision to run for re-election, and with your support, continue serving as your Mayor.
Community Leadership
I have a proven track record of bringing people of diverse backgrounds together to accomplish common goals. As a Deputy Regional Field Director for President Barack Obama’s re-election campaign, I was proud to manage a team of over 500 staff and volunteers in the President’s successful campaign.
I quickly became active in the Central Coast community, advocating for various community organizations and initiatives. I emphasize unity and collaboration among residents from all walks of life to address Monterey’s diverse needs and priorities.
Since 2022, I served on the board of the Community Foundation for Monterey County (CFMC), chairing the Community Impact Investment Committee. Through our work, CFMC inspires philanthropy and bolstering communities across Monterey County, with significant grants totaling $41 million in 2023.
Now is the Time
We are living through a pivotal moment for our region. There are critical decisions that elected officials must make in the coming years that will impact the long-term sustainability of our community. Through my previous experience as a committee member on the Architectural Review Committee, and previous Chair of the Monterey County Housing Advisory Committee, I have seen firsthand the difference an active community makes. I have fought for public control of our utilities, including our water and energy supply, but efforts by a few can only go so far - change requires persistent and sustained efforts of an engaged community. As Monterey’s Mayor, I will continue working tirelessly to foster, grow, and encourage productive civic participation.
I envision a future for our city as a leader in public engagement. By better utilizing modern forms of communication, I believe we can “Move Monterey Forward” by fostering robust community input to drive decision making in our local government.
On important challenges like increasing access to affordable housing, improving transportation infrastructure, and providing a sustainable water supply, Monterey is not alone. I will collaborate with regional partners to tackle these tough issues, and improve our quality of life on the Central Coast.