I moved to North Carolina from Connecticut in 2003. After graduating from Johnson and Wales University in Norfolk, Va with a degree in culinary arts. I came to Raleigh looking for a career as a chef. As a young 24-year-old graduate, I had many lessons to learn about life and unfortunately learned some the hard way.

But I’m better for it now. One thing I learned very quickly is that what makes North Carolina so wonderful is the hospitality of its people. I’ve learned so much from many people who taught me life lessons I’ll never forget. I will represent all North Carolinians with a listening ear and respect for all of my constituents.

The government in our state needs to start working for all citizens of this state.All North Carolinians need to be fairly represented, regardless of race, sexual orientation or gender. Government has overstepped its boundaries with education. Education decisions need to be made by families not bureaucrats. Government has stood in the way of too many small businesses with regulations and restrictions which have made it hard to compete for many small businesses.