My connection to Dolls for Daughters®: When Kenzi died, I was not yet a mother so I didn’t understand the bond that begins early in pregnancy – this is something only a mother understands. I couldn’t even begin to understand the possibility of losing “what could have been” because I didn’t have children. I saw the pain Jessica was going through but I did not know how to help. I didn’t know what to say or how to act and even today I don’t. I pray that I never fully understand Jessica’s loss – the pain of losing a child is unimaginable. What I do understand is that Jessica took her loss and turned it into something beautiful. When Jessica asked me to be a part of Dolls for Daughters® I knew I could help! To be part of an organization that not only helps children, but honors Kenzi at the same time is a blessing and a privilege. Thank you Jessica for allowing me to share this with you – you are an amazing woman and an inspiration! I love you!

Personal background: I was born and raised in Columbia, Missouri and moved to Colorado 12 years ago. I met the man of my dreams (pictured above) in 2004. Jeff and I were married the summer of 2006 and our first son, Alexander, was born in May of 2008. Our second son, Andrew, is on the way and will arrive early in December.

Professional background: I obtained a bachelor’s degree in financial management and a master’s degree in accounting from the University of Colorado. I worked for Ernst & Young for a brief period of time, did a bit of industry accounting and consulting and am now an Instructor at my alma mater. I teach financial accounting to both undergraduate and graduate students at the University of Colorado in Denver. I am a licensed CPA and am a member of the Colorado Society of CPAs and the American Institute of CPAs.