Project Photos, Prose, & Distribution, “Walking Where Water Belongs” at the Great Salt Lake — As Democratic activists, we are often drawn to a particular issue or topic. In January 2023, a vigil for the Great Salt Lake took place on Antelope Island. I was unable to join those camping watchers, but every day I visited the south shores to connect with them and the declining Lake. Not directly a UDP Secretary duty, I share images and information about our inland sea as Democrats throughout the state demonstrate values that unite us all. The picture on this page was taken in early 2024, as we waited for policymakers as well as the Lake to rise.
Current Secretary of the Utah Democratic Party — I was elected in 2022 and joined a leadership team - officers, staff, executive committee, county and caucus chairs - dedicated to engage and encourage Democrats throughout our state. We have seen the growth of county party participation and pride, an increased level of awareness and improvement of UDP governance, and much more interest in Party involvement with people across the state, obviously to increase Party membership.
Secretary-Treasurer, Central Utah Federation of Labor — My job is to record and manage meeting minutes; prepare and present reports and maintain financial records; and collaborate with other union members in projects such as Union 101 and the Joe Hill monument at Sugar House Park. My union, the American Federation of Teachers, gave me the foundations of governance with documents, meeting procedures, and accountability … all with civility and respect as primary values. During my employee years, I served as the President of the Granite Federation of Teachers and Political Vice President of AFT Utah.
Member, Organizing Committee, Labor Day Celebration Picnic in Magna — For over 20 years, I have helped organize activities and coordinate volunteers at the largest Labor Day Picnic in Utah. Every year, I engage Latinos in Action students at Cyprus High School as volunteers and celebrate their growth as community activists and leaders.
Former Legislator, Utah House of Representatives — Serving from 2017 through 2022, I still walk, meet people in the district neighborhoods, and learn about our west side distinctions. Knowing more about the lives and experiences of our neighbors is key to our Democratic Party goals. Policymaking as one of our elected Dems meant representing and applauding “the Minority” across the state. I believe that encouraging our “good trouble” voters and increasing the number of “blue dots” in Utah is a UDP leadership role.
Vice Chair, Utah House District 26 — Years ago, I began my active participation in the Democratic Party as a county Labor Caucus vice chair, when all the caucus leaders brainstormed and collaborated on ways to better connect with people and build the Party through values-based projects. I felt purposeful, gained forever friends, and grew a more solid understanding of the diverse perspectives our Party invites and upholds.
Vice President, Board of Trustees, Friendship Manor Senior Apartments — Friendship Manor is an affordable housing apartment complex, with emphasis on providing residents a sense of community. Four church congregations united over 50 years ago to build and oversee a place where senior citizens would feel safe, invited, and engaged. My particular role is to meet regularly with the residents, as a liaison to the Board of Trustees.
Secretary, Board of Directors, Utah Rivers Council — I am honored to serve on this board which provides governance and leadership in the most knowledgeable organization in Utah about water issues and policy. My duties involve recording minutes, coordinating on governance guidelines, and collaborating with dedicated conservationists to preserve waterways, watersheds, wetlands, and the Great Salt Lake.
Member, Board of Trustees, West Valley Arts Foundation — In early 2024, the West Valley City Council suddenly announced the closure of our town’s theater space … without consulting the community or our amazing theater professionals. Joining with theater folks throughout West Valley City and neighboring towns, our theater went from “shut down to sell out” last season and has begun an incredibly successful 2025 season. In January, the city turned the theater over to the foundation! I was a patron and policy activist as a legislator, and I am delighted to be part of this amazing governance group to educate, activate, and engage my extended neighborhood in truly great theater.
Vice President, Snake Creek Mutual Water Company — For over 50 years, my family has been involved in the oversight of a small water company in Midway. I followed my father in leadership on the company board and have shareholder trust and responsibility for institutional records, communication with shareholders, and informed decision-making.
Docent (and Special Tour Guide), Utah State Capitol — In 2017, during the Legislature’s interim period, I trained and became a Capitol Docent. Each [non-pandemic] week since then, I have shared the stories and explained functions of the three branches of government at our Utah People’s House. I also provide special tours and conduct committee simulations with student and community groups — some civics from a Democratic voice.
Retired Public School Teacher — Along with the college degrees, certificates, and membership in various organizations related to education, 32 years of experience in junior and senior high schools brought invaluable skills and insights. As a teacher, I encountered the issues, concerns, and consequences of my community. As a teacher, I learned the inestimable value of ethical interactions and integrity as a leader.