I often joke that my “why” for editing is that I have a passion for telling people they’re wrong. But the truth is, my dedication to editing comes from a desire to empower underrepresented populations and share their valuable diverse backgrounds and experiences. To me, publishing isn’t just about working with books—it’s about working with the people those stories represent.

I realized the importance of this while volunteering as a coach for the Battle of the Books program at a Title I middle school in Durham, one of the most diverse counties in the state. While I try to stay informed about the political climate we live in, I wasn’t prepared for the many questions I received about racial and other inequalities. After our first discussion, the students and I began dedicating weekly time to these conversations, creating a space where we could engage in honest dialogue. Through these discussions, I not only supported my students but also gained deeper insight into my own identity as a biracial woman.

The books we read provided context and rawness in these conversations, and I carry that perspective into each piece of media I consume. It’s this intersection of storytelling, representation, and understanding that motivates me to help those underrepresented find their voice.

Becoming an NC State Goodnight Scholar is undoubtedly my proudest professional accomplishment. I was the first student from my high school to be awarded this full-tuition scholarship (est. 2008), and I’ve continued to be an active member in the program, benefiting from professional development opportunities and enriching cultural experiences.

On a more personal note, Crocheting for a Cause (CFAC) is my number one proudest accomplishment. Through CFAC, I’ve not only created a tangible impact but, more importantly, built a thriving community on one of the largest college campuses in the country. Over 80 students, representing diverse majors, interests, and backgrounds, have found a place of belonging through this initiative. I’ll always take pride in the lasting legacy CFAC leaves at NC State.

Honest with optimism. I believe every working relationship is built on trust and meaningful conversation. I approach my contributions as opportunities to foster open dialogue between an author’s current work and their ultimate vision. My mindset focuses on assessing where we are now, identifying where we want to be, and determining what actionable steps are needed to bridge that gap.

Last Fall, I worked on the TutorAI proposal as part of my graduate-level class, Introduction to Educational Innovation & Entrepreneurship with the goal of improving MerryQuery, a learning management software currently in development through NC State. The project came with challenges, from navigating graduate school schedules, to working through differing opinions on feature design. But it was a valuable learning experience, since it gave me the chance to collaborate with a diverse group of people, each with their own personalities and strengths. Through this project, I developed both hard skills—like market research, brand messaging, and feature design—and soft skills, such as conflict resolution, patience, and compromise.

Much to the surprise of my friends, I don’t drink caffeine. However, I am a hot chocolate addict with an undeniable passion for canned whipped cream!

This was way harder than it should have been, but I’d have to say Leslie Knope from Parks and Recreation. Her blind optimism and ambition, though often misguided, are qualities I admire and strive to embody in my everyday work. If I met her, I would ask:

1. As an editor, authors have to trust me to do right by their work, and I must be prepared to advocate for them—even when I don’t necessarily agree or they’re not in the room. How do you remain a strong, confident support through setbacks and challenges?

2. Editing requires countless reviews and revisions, which can seem discouraging for the author and creative team. What are your techniques to stay motivated and optimistic, and how do you keep everyone else inspired?

1. I love Broadway and have a growing collection of playbills and magnets.

2. I have performed in both Carnegie Hall (New York City) and at Pearl Harbor (Hawaii) through my middle and high school choirs.

3. I am a proud plant parent! What started as an attempt to keep five plants alive has blossomed into a thriving collection of 20+—and yes, they’re all still thriving!

4. I have visited 48 out of 50 states and am currently planning my “Maine-to-Alaska pipeline”—but don’t expect me to actually drive it.

5. I occasionally foster puppies—and yes, it’s every bit as heartwarming as it sounds.

1. Skittles—because who doesn’t need a little productivity fuel?

2. A pile of books—I count this as one item since it’s made up of never-touched TBRs.

3. A picture of my family—whether you can see them behind my dog’s head is irrelevant.

The Yi Peng & Loy Krathong festivals in Thailand. As a lifelong Disney fan, I’ve always found the lantern scene in Tangled beautiful and poetic. There's something incredibly moving about watching thousands of lanterns light up the night sky, each one carrying a wish or prayer into the world. Beyond the visual spectacle, the festival holds deep spiritual and cultural significance. The idea of being immersed in such a meaningful tradition, surrounded by the rich history and beauty of Thailand would be life changing.

The NC State Wolfpack men’s basketball team would absolutely win the championship if I were the coach—No, I have never played basketball, and no, I’m not taking any further questions. You’ll just have to trust me on this one.