Growing up in a military family has profoundly shaped my identity and instilled in me the values of service, resilience, and unwavering commitment to my community. My father, a retired Colonel and the longest-serving, most decorated Secretary of Veterans Affairs in the nation, has been an incredible source of inspiration.

His two tours in Vietnam and his dedication to advocating for veterans have not only impacted my life but have also transformed the lives of countless others. I am blessed to share this legacy with my three brothers and twin sister, Grandfather and Uncle all of whom have chosen to serve our country in Iraq and Afghanistan, continuing a proud tradition that stretches across generations.

My amazing mother, originally from Germany, has been a pillar of strength for our family. As the owner of a beloved restaurant, she has shown me the importance of hard work, compassion, and the power of community. Her ability to create a warm and nurturing environment has been a guiding light in my life, inspiring me to embrace challenges with grace and determination.

As a proud wife of a soldier, I have faced the unique challenges of military life, including deployments. During these times, I have made it my mission to ensure that our two daughters Myka and Courtlynn felt loved and supported, no matter the distance between us. I strive to instill in them the same values of strength and resilience that my parents have imparted to me, reminding them that love knows no bounds.

Professionally, I serve as an instructor for the Louisiana Military Department, With a deep passion for education and mentorship, I transitioned from public school teaching to working with the Louisiana National Guard's Youth Challenge Program-an initiative that holds a special place in my heart. This program offers young people a second chance at success, many of whom come from difficult backgrounds and require guidance and support to navigate their personal and academic paths. By fostering a safe, structured, and engaging learning environment, I empower these students to develop the skills necessary to thrive both in school and in life.

In addition to my work in education, I am profoundly committed to raising awareness about mental health, with a particular focus on suicide prevention. The mental health challenges facing both military and youth populations are staggering, and it is crucial that we create environments where individuals feel supported and empowered to seek help. I advocate for programs and resources that educate young people on mental health and equip them with tools to manage stress, anxiety, and depression effectively.

My work as an educator has allowed me to witness countless stories of resilience and triumph. Each day, I am inspired by the determination of my students to overcome obstacles and pursue their dreams. This platform is not only a reflection of my dedication to teaching but also a testament to the strength of the young people I work with and my unwavering commitment to their success. This work is incredibly fulfilling, and it aligns with my passion for advocating for suicide prevention, mental health awareness, and support for our veterans. I believe that by addressing these critical issues, we can create a more compassionate society where everyone feels valued and understood

The leadership and work ethic instilled in me by my parents have become the foundation of my advocacy and service. This legacy of service instilled in me the values of duty, honor, and dedication. I believe leadership is not just about holding a title but about inspiring others to reach their full potential. My mother's strength and resilience, along with the support of my parents, has fueled my passion for education, mentorship, and mental health advocacy. These values continue to drive my commitment to helping others overcome challenges and lead with purpose. As I compete for Mrs. USA, I am excited to share my journey, raise awareness for the causes I hold dear, and honor the sacrifices of those who have come before me. I am truly proud to represent Louisiana and to continue my family's legacy of service while striving to make a meaningful impact in the lives of others. Together, we can empower our youth, support our veterans, and foster a community rooted in love, resilience, and hope. 

~~~~~~~~~~

Still She Rose is a wellness program for leaders, women and teens in the pageant industry. Funded by the B4ACUSA Foundation, wellness program initiatives are open to all pageant community members.

The ROSE is symbolic of the spirit that grows within each of us when proper care and attention is applied.

Together, we can encourage wellness through self care, positive body image, renewed self esteem and affirmation of one's identity beyond pageantry. We aim to engage in a conversation of support, honesty, reflection and awareness, in order to promote wellness as the foundation of the pageant industry.

Because each of us can say, She Struggled; and Still She Rose.