Learn More About Me!

I’ve spent my career as an educator because I believe in the importance of helping people understand how society works so that we can be empowered to make change. I love learning new things, especially from passionate people who have gifts to share. I believe that there are no problems that are too complex or difficult to solve. What is required is a deep understanding of issues—which should always include learning from the people who are most affected—creative thinking, a tireless work ethic, and an unwavering conviction that a better future is possible.

Before getting into office, I was researching political divides in American culture. In that process I realized that I could keep trying to explain the forces that are pulling us apart, or I could do something about it. That’s why I ran for office: because I believe that no matter who we vote for, we’re all in this together, and we have to start acting like it. There’s too much at stake to give up on democracy.

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I moved to Ashland in 2012 for work and fell in love with the lake and north woods, the Chequamegon Bay community, and the larger region. People have a deeper connection to life and place here than I’ve experienced anywhere else. One of my favorite things about Northern Wisconsin is how much of the culture revolves around being outdoors and how we live according to the seasons.

In my house, summers are for growing a garden, boating and hanging out on the beach, fishing, playing softball, camping, and having cookouts with friends and family. Fall is for canning and putting the garden to bed, processing apples, chopping firewood, hunting, and processing deer. Winter is all about skiing, reading by the fire, having a house full of friends, family, and hot food. When spring finally rolls around, we tap maple trees and boil sap, start planning the garden, and try to keep the dog from trashing the house with her muddy paws. By late spring we’re all dreaming of summer, and we can’t wait to get back out on the lake. Every season is right for walking in our woods, sitting by a fire, and admiring our area’s spectacular sunsets.

I live just south of Ashland in the Town of Gingles with my partner, Cynthia Belmont, who is a writer and professor at Northland College. My step-son Harry is 2024 graduate of Ashland High School. We have a very anti-social rescue Border Collie named Mae, the cutest dog of all time.