What career experience or other credentials would you bring to Vestry service if you are elected? Since September of 1990 I have worked in mental health and substance abuse fields. I was a Substance Abuse Counselor, Crisis Counselor, Case Manager, and from 2012 – 2024 I was the Director of Camden County, New Jersey’s Office of Mental Health & Addiction (MA/SA). I was responsible for launching and overseeing the county’s funds for MH/SA. This involved strategic planning, studying the problems faced by consumers and family members. I have been involved in local, county and statewide efforts. While all SA/MA related issues were important, the greatest challenge we confronted was the Opioid Crisis. Camden County has been the most challenged county in the state by opioid related abuse and unfortunately, resultant fatalities. All of this work required collaboration with members of the public and other boards. I was responsible for convening no less than 6 boards, sitting on at least another six and making recommendations to the county leadership/Board of Commissioners. This work required devotion, determination, and skill to ensure these demographics who were encumbered by prejudice, denial, and a lack of compassion were afforded equity and respect. I oversaw approximately forty-three different programs, created many of them, wrote grant applications and responded to and approved or disapproved proposals from the community.  ​ What are your observations regarding the future of St. Luke’s Church and how do you feel you can contribute to them? St. Luke’s is a diverse congregation. My desire is always to be engaged with and in areas where diversity is seen as an asset and strength. That is what we are ‘called’ to understand. There is a lot of ministry going on and there are many passionate members engaged with the work. When I arrived in 2022, I was welcomed. Because of the diversity, this parish offers something for anyone walking through the doors. However, as is the challenge for traditional religions in the US, the demographic of the congregation is aging. Without new members, most congregations will have difficulty sustaining themselves. This is true of St. Luke’s. In my short time with the Stewardship Committee, I have tried to offer suggestions that increase the interaction between congregants particularly so that all of the ministries at St. Luke’s are amply highlighted. Additionally, I hope to remind folks that our work reflects the gifts we received from Jesus’s ministry and life. Church – has been a blessing in my life and by assisting to ensure it is sustained and thrives, I feel I will be able to ‘give’ back.