I’ve had the privilege of growing up in the autism community. My mother founded AutismOklahoma (AO) in 2002, when I was six years old, and my life has been deeply tied to this family ever since. Today, I can’t imagine who I would be without a home in AO.
Growing up in the nonprofit world fundamentally changes your perspective on what truly matters. From a young age, I learned about the unparalleled beauty of service, the necessity of sacrifice and the quiet wonder of loving people deeply.
As Director of Media and Communications, I get to be a catalyst for the people in my community to step into the spotlight and share their stories with the world. I get to look for magic in the mundane, sit down with participants and watch lives transform in miraculous ways. Every video I edit, word I write and decision I make is rooted in that deep, unwavering love. When a story makes you stop and think, when a photo makes you smile or when a video brings you to tears—you’re catching a glimpse of the beauty I see in our community.
Running Invisible Layers Productions is where that love shines brightest. I work tirelessly to provide our participants with high-level experiences, professional equipment and genuine mentorship that they wouldn’t otherwise have access to—because doing anything less would betray the love I have for them. They deserve the absolute best, and giving them my best is the greatest privilege of my life.
When I first learned I was selected as one of The Journal Record’s 2026 “50 Making a Difference” Women of the Year honorees, I found myself wondering how a young professional like me could ever be worthy of such recognition—especially when following in the footsteps of the incredible leaders who came before me. While I’m genuinely grateful for this honor, I’ve realized that the true reward lies in quiet, meaningful moments that happen behind the scenes.
Nothing compares to hearing a participant tell you through tears that no one has ever put so much effort into understanding him. Nothing compares to listening with a full heart as two different participants tell you their dreams are finally coming true, sharing genuine hugs with participants when they hit major milestones or having a participant introduce our team not as coworkers, but as his family. Those are the real accomplishments.
If I’ve learned anything about what it takes to be an advocate, it’s this: serve selflessly, push yourself to see the magic in a simple smile, learn how to meet people exactly where they are, show your love—don’t just tell it and allow yourself to be transformed by the love you give away.
To my AutismOklahoma family—thank you for letting me walk alongside you, grow with you and love you. Serving you is the greatest honor of my life.
