Bio

I grew up in Ithaca, New York, where I spent most of my time outside, developing a love of nature despite being chased by backyard roosters. I studied Comparative Literature in college, spending many hours there curled up in a library chair reading novels, loving the stories that connect us and the themes we all confront during our lives.

I moved to Boston, lived in a moldy basement apartment, and paid rent for a time with waitressing tips. While teaching English to refugees and immigrants, I was inspired to pursue a career in the law. I wanted to become an attorney to help people in a concrete, non-adversarial way, and so I fell in love with estate planning. I moved west to the Valley for a judicial clerkship, and have lived in Northampton ever since. While working, I earned a black belt in karate, successfully navigated a divorce, a remarriage, and a blending of families. I live in Florence with my husband, two sons, and two rescue dogs.

I feel fortunate that my job allows me to sit with my neighbors and community members, hear their stories, and help them identify those themes that are important to them. Creating an estate plan is vital work to protect yourself and your family, but it is also a powerful method to document what you value. All of us would like to leave a legacy. I feel privileged that I can help you help your loved ones and, at the same time, leave a loving and lasting memory.

Education:
Hamilton College 1996, Phi Beta Kappa
Boston College Law School 2003

Community Involvement:
Adjunct Professor – Western New England University Law School, 2023
Streetlight Financial Foundation, Former Board Member
Hampshire County Bar Association
Hampden Bar Association
Massachusetts Bar Association
Pioneer Valley Estate Planning Council, Board Member
Hampden County Estate Planning Council
NAELA (National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys)
Former Northampton Conservation Commissioner

Bar Admission:
2003, Massachusetts