BACKGROUND I've provided leadership throughout my life, professionally including leading my own design firms (as lead design architect and project manager), mentoring staff, encouraging students, and supporting the American Institute of Architects (including service as Associate Director of the Phoenix AIA Chapter). I have been honored by the American Institute of Architects, locally and regionally for pro bono contributions and commissioned design work. A native to Phoenix and the Sonoran Desert, I acquired Bachelor of Science degrees in both Environmental Design and in Communications at Arizona State University.