Oak Grove was more than a school; it was a family and a sanctuary to learn to be. For me, the wholeness of responsibility points to something subversive embodied in the way Oak Grove teachers aspire to reflect wholeness and basic goodness to every student, against the grain of many influences and impositions in society. Oak trees, terracotta cement blocks that were the playground of lizards, wood chips, and old decks also spoke of a quiet beauty and integrity that is, perhaps, a part of everything.

I attended Oak Grove from Kindergarten in 1993 through High School graduation in 2005. After graduating, I attended Barnard College, Columbia University in New York City, where I obtained a BA in English with a concentration in Film Studies. Shortly after graduating, I began my first job in nonprofit development at the Buddhist Digital Resource Center, while attending acting school at the William Esper Studio, also in New York City. For me, wholeness has included serving mission-driven organizations as well as creative practice in the arts. In 2015 and 2016, I attended Sarah Lawrence College, where I obtained a Masters of Fine Arts in Theater.

“In my research and writing, I aspire to carry forward the spirit of infinite care and contemplation nurtured in me by this school community.”

After that, I returned to California where I began my work with Lotus Outreach International, where I have now worked for nearly eight years. Lotus Outreach’s mission is to empower vulnerable women and children living in poverty. With affiliates in seven countries and strong local NGO partners in India, Cambodia, Vietnam, Guatemala, Brazil, and the USA, we are a global community that believes empowerment is the heart of sustainable change.

My most recent move to rural New Zealand amidst the pandemic in 2020 has inspired a blossoming of my professional and creative life that includes the growth of my role at Lotus Outreach to Director of Giving, as well as initiating a part-time doctoral study at the University of Auckland, with a theater writing practice component. At Lotus Outreach I assist in the leadership of our team to sustain and develop the global nonprofit. In my research and writing, I aspire to carry forward the spirit of infinite care and contemplation nurtured in me by this school community. In both, I am truly grateful to Oak Grove School.

This alumni profile was featured in the 2023 Fall Annual Fundraising Tea program.