Tell us a little about yourself. You can include your personal background, family, outside interests that are important to who you are as a person and a candidate.
I am a psychiatric occupational therapist and I am a passionate advocate for people with all types of disabilities. I work in the emergency department of Brigham and Women’s Hospital providing psychiatric OT treatment; this is a pioneering role in emergency behavioral care. I am the chair of the Lexington Commission on Disability and we strive to ensure that all residents have equal access to participate fully in all town services and programs. I am concerned about our schools as I have four children who went through LPS. We need to reduce the disparities in suspension rates in our schools. Another important part of my life is going to Uganda where I help disabled children in a small village.
Why are you running for Town Meeting?
I am running for reelection because I feel I have a unique perspective to bring to the decision-making process in the town. I like to consider all points of view. Collaboration is important and brings about positive change.
How has your past experience — whether in your professional life, elected office, or as a community leader — prepared you for a role in Town Meeting?
I have been active in Lexington as the chair of the Commission on Disability for years and am committed to advocacy for people’s rights. In my professional life and in my personal life I am highly motivated to help others and to support diversity, equity and inclusion.
What is the most important issue in this election to you personally, and what ideas do you have about how to address this issue?
I believe the most important issues involve fair housing, economic growth and continuing to make Lexington a welcoming and accessible community.
I believe in collaboration through active listening. I seek out opinions from others and try to reach equitable and thoughtful conclusions based on majority opinions