Big news, friends! After an amazing journey with the Office of the Juvenile Defender, it's time for me to turn the page and start a new chapter in my career. I’m thrilled to announce that I’ll be joining the Wake County Public Defender's Office as an Assistant Public Defender! While saying goodbye to the OJD family is bittersweet, I’m beyond excited about the fresh challenges and adventures ahead.
The past few years at OJD have been nothing short of transformative. I’ve learned so much, not just as a lawyer, but as a person. From courtroom lessons to unexpected life lessons, there’s a lot I’ll carry with me as I take on this new role. So, before I jump into this next adventure, I wanted to take a moment to reflect on a few of the most valuable lessons and experiences that I’ll always remember from my time here. Here’s a quick look at some things that have truly shaped my journey:
Speedboats and Barges
One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned at OJD is the difference between being on a speedboat and being on a barge. At OJD, our pace, like that of a barge, is steady, deliberate, and focused on long-term problem solving. We take time to consider every angle, and the work is measured, thoughtful, and strategic. But now, as I prepare to re-join the frontline defenders “in the trenches”, I’m about to jump back onto a speedboat with a whole community of passionate, fast-moving defenders who operate at a break-neck pace, making quick decisions and adapting in real-time to the challenges that come our way. It’s an exciting shift, and while I’ll miss the steady, thoughtful rhythm of the barge, I’m looking forward to the speedboat and the thrill of the ride!
We Have a Fantastic Defender Community
We have an incredible community of youth defenders across the state. Whether you're on the frontlines or in an office, there’s an unwavering support that flows through the entire network. We’re all in it together, and that camaraderie is truly something special. From brainstorming strategies by email or text to sharing tips and tricks, everyone genuinely wants to see each other succeed. The best part? We know that we are all stronger because of our collective efforts. There’s no competition here—just a shared passion for fighting for our youth, making a difference in their lives, and lifting each other up while we do this work.
QuickGuides, and One-Pagers, and Trainings, Oh My!
One of the most rewarding parts of my time at OJD has been the opportunity to collaborate with my amazing team to create resources for defenders whenever a need arose. Whether we were responding to a question from a stakeholder or working to share new information with the community, there was always a sense of purpose behind every project. From training materials to quick reference guides, we found creative ways to meet the ever-evolving needs of the defense community. I’ve been so proud to contribute to developing these resources—tools that help empower defenders and make their work just a little bit easier. It’s been fulfilling to be part of a team that recognizes the power of accessible, well-designed resources, and I’ll carry that mindset with me as I continue my career!
The Team
Ah, the team. Where do I even begin? Working with the squad at OJD has been nothing short of magical. We’re small, but mighty—each of us bringing our own quirks, talents, and energy to the table. It’s been an absolute joy to collaborate with such a close-knit group of people who not only challenge and inspire me but also make me laugh on the daily. From brainstorming sessions that turn into just straight-up giggles to tackling challenges with creative solutions, we truly function as a well-oiled machine. We’ve weathered the highs and lows together, and I’m forever grateful for the warmth, support, and camaraderie we share. As I head off on my next adventure, I’ll always carry with me the special bond we’ve built, knowing that no matter where we go, we’re still part of the same little team that could!
As I head into this new chapter, I want to thank everyone who has been part of my journey at OJD. While my role may be changing, I’m not going anywhere—I’ll still be right here in the youth defense community, ready to connect, collaborate, and continue fighting the good fight. Please don’t hesitate to reach out if you ever need a hand, a sounding board, or just want to chat. The beauty of this community is that it’s never goodbye, just "see you around." I’m excited for the future and proud to remain part of the incredible network of defenders who make a difference every single day.