What led you to Scottish Rite?
My passion for humanity, education and ministry led me to Scottish Rite for Children. When I was a resident, I was able to share my pediatric chaplaincy experience with Scottish Rite patients, families and staff. I’m excited and humbled that my residency brought me back to Scottish Rite as the first ever full-time staff chaplain.

Tell us a little bit more about your role.
In my role, I aim to be a calm, hospitable presence for Scottish Rite. I’m here to offer care and support to everyone who enters our doors. I focus on providing direct care to patients receiving day surgery or in the Inpatient Unit. I attend weekly clinical huddles, collaborate with non-clinical services and provide religious resources. Throughout the year, I also offer liturgical reflections, godly play, spiritual play and religious services in Scottish Rite’s chapel for patients, families and staff.

What do you want staff to know about chaplains?
Professional chaplains have extensive educational and clinical training in world religions, theology, spirituality, inclusion and diversity, ethics and family systems. They are here to provide emotional and spiritual support to everyone in the hospital.

When a situation requires for it, they also provide pastoral care, ethical consultation, religious or non-religious support, hospitality, grief or bereavement support, conflict mediation, patient advocacy and customer service, among others.

What made you choose a career in health care?
My personal experience with grief, along with my own medical emergencies and surgeries, led me to a career in health care. As a hospital chaplain, my compassion, love for others and selfless service encourages me to genuinely work with others through the difficult and joyous transitions of life, illness, recovery, grief or death.

What is something unique you get to do in your position?
I have the unique opportunity to learn people’s stories. By utilizing creative tools in my role, I invite others to discover meaning and purpose during their hospitalization and/or daily work.

What’s your favorite thing to do outside of work?
Outside of work, I love to spend time outdoors and read books. I also love to bake and cook for my family.

Do you have any hidden talents?
Car dancing!

Where are you from and what brought you to DFW?
I am a homegrown Dallas girl!

If you could travel to anywhere in the world, where would you go and why?
I would go to New Zealand to soak in as many mountain hikes and water adventures as possible before relaxing at a few wineries.

If you had to pick one meal to eat for the rest of your life, what would it be and why?
Because of my love of rice and vegetables, I would eat sushi and stir fry for the rest of my life.

What movie do you think everyone should watch at least once?
“Life Is Beautiful.”

What was the first concert you attended?
I went to B-52’s concert.

Favorite DFW hidden gem?
My favorite DFW gem is not hidden, but it’s the view of the Dallas skyline from any perspective.

If you were to have a movie based on your life, which actress/actor would you choose to play your character?
Drew Barrymore.

What is some advice you would give your younger self OR what’s the best piece of advice you’ve received?
Make the best of each day and celebrate often!