Before making it to world of UX design, research and strategy, I studied International Politics and German at Penn State, taught in secondary education for two years. I found a deep talent for technology, and moved into creatively managing and running eDiscovery data and software projects for a wonderful ten years.

My approach is to begin at the beginning - understanding the current state, the human story and the goals of the product. From there I focus on embedding within the team(s), learning the challenges and the environment, so we can execute effectively, consistent with the best design standards and interaction models. I like to discover expansively, build, test and iterate - always keeping stakeholders and development teams informed.

For me, design isn't just about making something that meets requirements. I definitely do that, but I am focused on making it fit the business AND making the experience a delight. From a high level product perspective as well as that of a pure maker.

My yoga and meditation practices have been making my life better for the last 10 years. I also love the body-centered inquiry and "focusing" methods taught by Jonathan Foust in the DC area. I assist Jonathan on a number of retreats yearly, and love supporting and facilitating others in their own transformation. The big thing is really to relax and pay attention, cultivate non-judging awareness, and then see what arises.

I have a long way to go, but the path of clean, healthy and mindful living has really supported me in my career, but most recently in UX. These practices have drastically improved my ability to be myself and present in any kind of face-to-face meeting or work situation. Thus creating a fun, relaxed environment - one where deep listening, fun and sustainable hard work is the norm.

Sailing is my very favorite free time activity. Getting out into the ocean with some friends, working as a team to make a plan and get somewhere just by using the wind, some lines and sails. Feeling alive is the best.

I teach sailing right here in SW Washington, DC at DC Sail (an educational non-profit) on the weekends, charter sailboats with friends and just overall love spending my time on the water. It's pure freedom. It also pays for scholarships so under-privileged kids can have awesome summer camps. Find them at http://www.dcsail.org.