How have you been involved with Girls on the Run?

I have been coaching at City Springs Elementary/Middle School for the past 5 years.

What drew you to the program to get involved?

I started running as an adult and love the sport and wanted to see if there was an organization where I could combine my love of running with an opportunity to give back to the community. During my first season, it became clear to me that the GOTR program is SO MUCH MORE than running with a little girl power mixed in.

Why do you think it's so important for girls today to have access to this program?

I'm a feminist, and I believe that women and girls can do great things when bolstered with confidence and the support of a community. Girls on the Run provides girls with the tools to support their own emotional and social wellbeing and encourages them to lift each other up. As a coach, many of the lessons in the curriculum have reminded me as an adult of coping skills and strategies, such as Stop and Take a BrThRR and using "I feel" statements for conflict resolution, to become a self-actualized and more emotionally intelligent person. Teaching these skills and having seen girls practice these strategies at a crucial time in their development over the years makes me confident that Girls on the Run is helping girls to become more confident and empathetic, which sets them up for success. In addition, the program creates a sense of community which is strengthened by giving girls opportunities to share their experiences with each other without judgment. I have seen countless friendships blossom as girls come out of their shells each season.

What are some of your hobbies or interests?

I like to run and race sailboats for fun.