What inspires you?
I am inspired by the idea of being a lifelong learner and that it’s never too late to pursue one’s passion in life. I was a non-traditional law student as I did not pursue this goal immediately after graduating from college. I think that it’s important to focus on one’s own inherent talents and work diligently toward achieving goals in life even when faced with setbacks along the way.
How do you relate your degree to your practice on the bench?
My undergraduate degree is in chemistry with a minor in law and public policy. Also, I have a master’s in chemistry.
Moreover, I possess a Florida Teaching Certificate in chemistry and exceptional student education. I have a strong analytical mindset driven by data and research.
This logic driven and pragmatic approach coupled with the ability to deal with people who have a multitude of educational backgrounds has helped me to narrowly focus on the issues presented in court and deal effectively with the many different personalities of the litigants and the lawyers who appear in my courtroom.
My teaching experience has been beneficial with regard to “meeting people where they are at,” as it has given me the skillset to communicate with people in the most efficacious manner to ensure that that they understand the information being conveyed.
What community service have you pursued and why?
I served as a volunteer board member with the Nassau County Code Enforcement Board for over 10 years. Also, I volunteered as a math and science tutor with Communities in Schools in Nassau County. Serving as a Nassau County Code Enforcement Board member allowed me to become a better public speaker and this service gave me an opportunity to make findings of fact and conclusions of law.
These skills are of utmost importance in my current role as a judge presiding over cases.
As a tutor with Communities in Schools, I was able to assist students who were at risk of dropping out of school and get them on track to better succeed in the next academic year.
Do you have any special talents?
In my spare time, I greatly enjoy cooking. I often research recipes online and very much enjoy not only the creative process of cooking, but also photographing my dishes for others to be inspired by my meals. I strive to modify recipes to make the recipes healthier and more flavorful.
If you weren’t a judge, what do you think you’d be?
I have always been interested in both science and the law. I likely would have pursued a career in medicine as a pathologist or forensic science.
Have you traveled anywhere exotic?
I have traveled extensively overseas and have visited all seven continents. The most exotic trip I have taken was a 15-day excursion to Antarctica. This trip included up-close encounters with myriad wildlife including humpback whales, penguins, leopard seals and birds.