My experience working in groups and on boards has been diverse and extensive. I have served as an executive in the defense/aerospace industry, where collaboration and teamwork were crucial to the success of complex, high-stakes projects. Additionally, as a small-business owner in Charleston, I work with my husband and our team to manage multiple ventures, which has honed my ability to make decisions, foster collaboration, and resolve conflicts constructively.

I also had the privilege of serving in the Puerto Rico Department of Education, where I trained over 400 school directors on public education software systems. This experience gave me a deep understanding of working with diverse teams and navigating complex challenges in an educational setting. I believe my ability to listen, communicate clearly, and remain focused on shared goals are key strengths that I would bring if elected.

In light of recent public conflicts and backlash, I would prioritize building relationships and trust across majority-minority divides. I understand that different perspectives and opinions are part of any healthy board, and I would approach every discussion with a focus on common ground, while respecting differences. To foster cooperation, I would:

1. Encourage Open Dialogue: I believe transparency and communication are essential. I would create spaces where all board members feel heard and respected, ensuring that every voice is part of the conversation.

2. Focus on Shared Objectives: Despite differences, I would keep the board focused on the common goal—providing the best possible education for Charleston’s children. By grounding discussions in this shared mission, we can work through differences and achieve meaningful outcomes.

3. Promote Collaboration: I would actively encourage collaboration between board members with diverse perspectives. I’ve found that the best solutions often come from a mix of ideas, and I would foster an environment where brainstorming and teamwork are valued.

4. Maintain Professionalism: I would bring a calm, solutions-focused approach to board meetings, even in times of tension. I believe in addressing conflicts constructively, focusing on the issues rather than personal differences, and seeking resolutions that benefit the community.

5. Leverage Data and Facts: I would use data and factual information to drive decisions and discussions, helping to minimize emotional divides and ensuring that decisions are made in the best interest of the students.

By applying these principles, I believe we can work across divides to foster cooperation, rebuild trust, and keep the board focused on achieving its objectives for the betterment of Charleston’s schools and students.