When my parents moved our family from the Philippines to the US back in the late 70s, it was so that my siblings and I would have a better life and one that was full of opportunity. As one of few Asians in my small town, it was painfully clear that I was different from the very beginning of my American life. Throughout my childhood, I felt compelled to make friends with other kids who were different, too - at a very young age, I had already developed compassion for others. 

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     I also had a passion for service to others at a young age. To follow in my father's footsteps (and to get some much-needed discipline), I had the opportunity to join the Air Force and spent my early 20s learning critical leadership skills and working with others to make sure we completed the mission - all while training fighter pilots in electronic enemy warfare. The military teaches you to fight for our freedoms and for those who can't fight for themselves. At St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, where I have worked the past 10 years, our primary principle is compassion for those in need. Every day, we fight to make sure these kids not just have life, but quality of life. You see, compassion for and service to others has been my life's work.

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     As a veteran, I am fighting for comprehensive and timely veterans services. We should be putting it all on the line for those who put it all on the line for us. As a higher education administrator and mother, I am fighting for public education, including universal pre-K and programs that prepare students for both vocational-technical careers and college. As a citizen who wants to foster a prosperous future for our community, I am fighting for improved infrastructure that allows Memphis and surrounding Shelby County to be a preferred destination for growth in new industry and commerce.

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     I am not a politician - just a citizen who cares about her community. I want to bring hope and inspiration to Memphis and surrounding Shelby County and be a compassionate voice for Shelby County. As the District 1 County Commissioner, I promise to wake up everyday fighting for our community and making sure every citizen has the opportunity for a better life.