About Me

Immersing myself in the world of Restorative Practices has changed me, and I want to share what I have learned.

We do not exist solely as individuals. Our lives are lived in connection with others. In our families, our workplaces, schools, friend groups, who we are as individuals comes back to who we are in relationship with other people. That is why Restorative Practices are important.

I have been studying Restorative Practices for ten years, and I have learned the impact it can make on how we relate to others. I have learned how to be a more supportive coworker, friend and parent. I have learned how to deeply listen and communicate more effectively. I have evolved from being a conflict avoider to feeling very confident in handling all levels of conflict.

My hope is that you feel inspired to learn more.

Certification:

  • Kalamazoo College degree in International Relations

  • Mediation training through the Michigan Dispute Resolution Center 

  • Restorative Justice Victim Offender training

  • Circle training through the International Institute of Restorative Practices (IIRP)

  • Trained in Nonviolent Communication

  • Certification in Youth Mental Health First Aid 

  • CISM (Critical Incident Stress Management) training through the International Critical Incident Stress Foundation, Inc. 

  • Trained as a trainer in QPR (Question, Persuade, Refer) suicide prevention training

Experience:

  • Nine years of experience as Restorative Justice facilitator in the following school districts: Kalamazoo, Portage, Battle Creek, Schoolcraft

  • Restorative Practices Trainer for many school districts, including: Portage, Battle Creek, Kalamazoo, Gull Lake, Parchment, Paw Paw, Homer, Comstock.

  • Restorative Practices trainer for the following organizations: YMCA of Greater Kalamazoo, Seita Scholars Program WMU, Bronson Healthcare Group, Kalamazoo Collective Housing, Air Zoo

  • Active founding member of Peace House Community, Kalamazoo Eastside Neighborhood

  • Fifteen years running an after-school and summer program for Eastside youth

  • Twenty-five years of living in intentional community