Theatrically, my greatest influences and opportunities came from teachers 1st grade through college. These encounters were priceless for me and inspired me to want to provide this for students today.  During college, I was a member of the traveling Collegiate Debate and Forensics Team and earned a degree in Speech Communications and English.  Since 2013, I have directed or produced over 30 productions (straight plays and musicals) for children, teens, and adults in community theatre, churches, summer camps, and local schools.  One great blessing has been to direct 3 special needs productions through The Penguin Project with plans for a yearly event.  For a limited number of productions, I have also been the writer, choreographer, stage manager, light designer, and music director.  Presently, I am a public school high school English teacher and The South Arkansas Arts Center Drama Club director. Producing, directing, and managing various summer camps are one of my great loves because it is more than “just a play”.  The performing arts allow the actors to confront and overcome their fears, to grow in interpersonal skills, and to display their talents.  Students learn to thrive under the camaraderie of cast and crew, as well as grow skills of diligence, teamwork, and a good work ethic.  I rejoice seeing theatre change and enhance lives, especially those of children.