I grew up in Seattle, Washington, and earned my Bachelor of Arts in English from the University of Notre Dame. After graduating, I taught English Literature at an independent high school in New York City and then English Literature and Ethics at a sixth-form college in London, England. My daughter was born in London, and I spent the next few years raising my children. During this time, I discovered the absolutely transformative effect of libraries on children’s literacy. When it was time to return to work, I knew that libraries were where I needed to be. I enrolled in a program that allowed me to simultaneously earn my Master’s degree in Library Information Science and my certification as a School Library Media Specialist. Shortly after completing my degree, our family learned we were being relocated overseas to the US Embassy in South Africa, so my work as a librarian was put on hold, and I spent three years in Africa working with the State Department. Since returning, I have been delighted to be a member of the McLean community. I have been trained in, and I love that I’m able to work closely with students from all divisions, helping with research, source analysis, and literacy. Perhaps my greatest joy, however, has been helping students find books that connect with them and getting to know their individual interests and literary needs. I love hiking, running, playing rugby, and reading in my spare time.