My Qualifications

Leadership

I have extensive experience leading others to achieve greatness. Throughout my career, I have held numerous leadership positions, including decades of public service and my tenure on the Orange County Board of Supervisors. My leadership style is positive and encouraging, focusing on empowering others rather than negativity or banter. I help people recognize their potential, inspiring them to set goals and accomplish great things. Additional leadership roles include serving as President of the Rotary Club of Orange in 2023 and Vice-Chair of Aging Together’s Board of Directors in 2023. I also founded the Epidemic Intelligence Council (EpIC) and the Orange Reentry Council, among other initiatives. As your District 4 Supervisor, I am a proven leader who can make tough and sometimes unpopular decisions for the benefit of Orange County residents, while encouraging collaboration and participation. A prime example is my work to save over 1,000 acres of prime farmland from exploitation by the solar industry. Through extensive community involvement and research, I exposed the unfavorable impacts of the proposed project and industry influence, working tirelessly to protect our land.

Communication

My communication skills are what help me to be such a strong leader. I am not easily agitated; I approach conversations with an open mind and try not to make preconceived judgements without having listened to what others have to say. Listening is a major aspect of communication, and I am a great listener. I also like to ask tough questions and am open to feedback and absorbing what others know. I don’t pretend to know it all, but I am good at learning from others and taking into consideration various opinions, thoughts, and feelings. This not only makes me an excellent communicator but also helps me with problem-solving and making informed decisions.

Problem-solving

I utilize my strong problem-solving skills daily, and I’ve found that my mind continues to work on challenges even while I’m asleep. My approach is methodical: gathering facts, asking questions, seeking feedback from citizens, conducting research, and consulting subject matter experts. I also incorporate prayer and reflection when appropriate. As a visionary and big-picture thinker, I look beyond immediate solutions to consider future impacts and less obvious possibilities. At the same time, I am quick on my feet and able to make fast decisions when necessary, a skill I rely on daily to manage unexpected crises that arise.

Collaboration

Collaboration is a key skill that has proven to be a strength that I utilize daily. My track record for bringing people together to discuss tough issues and affect positive change is superb. In 2018, I created the Epidemic Intelligence Council (EpIC), bringing a cross-section of leaders and community members together on a regular basis to address the opioid crisis. In 2020 I convened the Orange County Reentry Council, collaborating with various stakeholders and interested parties to help prisoners reentering society. In 2022, I served as the Chair of the Orange County Community Policy and Management Team (CPMT) and was appointed to the Juvenile Court Advisory Council. I am currently the elected District 4 Board of Supervisor and serve as a Commissioner on the Rappahannock – Rapidan Regional Commission. I am on numerous other local committees and involved with various organizations that serve our locality.

Decision-making

Throughout my career I have been in positions where tough decisions are required of me. As a leader, I am constantly faced with decisions that impact people and their livelihood. I make choices that impact employees, citizens, children, and adults. Being in such a position that affects people in such a profound way can be difficult but rewarding. I have a proven track record for being the go-to leader for sound and difficult decision making that people trust and respect. It’s one thing to draw conclusions on matters but to make decisions that are respected and trusted by those who are most greatly impacted is where my proven ability to make positive choices emerges. I am confident and sound in my decision-making process while keeping in mind the enormity of each choice made and the impact it can have on others.

Integrity

I believe you can ask anyone who knows me about my integrity, and they will tell you that I am open, honest and fair. I am open with my thoughts and feelings but compassionate and empathetic enough to realize that not everyone will share the same views. When I say I am going to do something, I always try my best to get it done or explain why it couldn’t be done. Rather than being sneaky or hard to read, my intent and conscious effort is to be fair and transparent in all that I do. I also thrive on learning by asking questions, doing research, seeking input from others, and candidly sharing my approach and thoughts. I am committed to doing what’s right for the citizens of Orange County and have thoroughly enjoyed having a positive impact as your District 4 Supervisor.