Current position:
President and administrator, Edenton Retirement Community and the new president of the Hood Alumni Executive Board

Responsibilities:
Oversee the business operations and direction of the company’s services for seniors including independent living, assisted living, dementia care and home care services

Degree:
Bachelor of Arts degree; double majored in psychology and sociology; completed concentrations in both gerontology and social science research. I stayed in Frederick County and completed my Master of Business Administration in 2003 at Mount Saint Mary’s College.

Where did you live as a student:
Memorial Hall

Favorite class you took at Hood?
Besides badminton with Dot Bailey, all of my gerontology classes.

What made you decide to attend Hood?
The gerontology program that Hood offered was one of the first of its kind in the 1980s. I knew that I wanted a career working with seniors and selected Hood, early decision, after meeting with Dr. Dana Cable and touring the campus during my junior year of high school.

How did your experience at Hood influence or shape your career today?
Dr. Cable was a strong influence and great mentor. And Hood connected me with the internship opportunity I had in Frederick, which turned into my first job offer after graduation.

What is your fondest memory of your time at Hood?
There are several traditions that I remember fondly, but the one I take everywhere is the Hood Hello. You will never meet a stranger if you are willing to say “Hello” to everyone you meet. It opens the door to possibilities.

Describe Hood in one word.
Community

What did you do in the year immediately after graduating?
My internship with Daybreak Adult Day Services during the spring of my senior year turned into a full-time, paid position upon graduation.

Stranded on an island, what three things are you sure to have with you?
Matches, a spear and my Kindle with a solar charging battery.

Advice to current Hood students?
Take advantage of all that Hood has to offer. Try out different things. It could be a new experience that you are curious about, a leadership opportunity with a campus organization or a chance to learn more about a career path you’ve considered pursuing. Use your time in college—it’s a safe environment to explore. The faculty and staff are available to support you as you consider next steps after college and begin to write your own story.