Q: How did you get your start working at Seedlings?

A: I’ve always known I wanted to work in the nonprofit sector, so when I saw Seedlings was hiring, it felt like the perfect cross section of my passion for literacy, disability rights, and dedicating my life in the service of others.

Q: You’ve held a lot of different roles since starting at Seedlings, can you tell us about each of them?

A: I started at Seedlings in the shipping and production department, which allowed me to learn the ins and outs of our office, our customers, and how our books are made. I then moved into being Production Co-Manager with my counterpart, Kari. It was great to be able to learn with her and to start experiencing Seedlings from the managerial side of things. From there, I started to work more closely with Debra and it became clear I had more skills to devote to Seedlings. I then moved into Program Manager, which quickly shifted into Assistant Director, which led us here today!

Q: What’s your favorite part about working at Seedlings? 

A: That’s a tough one! One of my favorite things is hearing from all of the wonderful children we serve. We receive so many touching pictures and quotes from our kids and their families. I feel so honored to make even a small difference in their lives and it’s absolutely what keeps me going every day. Plus, being an avid reader, getting to work with books every day is a big draw, too!   

Q: What’s your favorite Seedlings’ book?

A: Oh, it’s so hard to pick a favorite Seedlings book! I do have a soft spot for Because of Winn-Dixie and The Wind in the Willows. Those were two of my favorites growing up. My favorite board book from Seedlings will always be Sometimes I Like to Curl Up in a Ball. Just like the main character, Little Wombat, I also like to curl up in a ball sometimes! 

Q: What’s your all time favorite book?

A: My personal favorite book is Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen. I will never forget the day I first read it. I was 13, read it all in one sitting, and I was absolutely enthralled by the beauty, strength, and knowledge held within those pages. That magical feeling is exactly what I want to give to our readers today. 

Q: Do you have any personal connection to the VI community? 

A: I do! My brother-in-law, John Kusku, has been in my family for around 25 years and he just happens to be blind. I grew up with him and even had braille on my family's microwave and TV remotes. I’ve also worked and volunteered within the VI community for almost 16 years myself. In that time, I am grateful to have been able to learn through their lived experiences and dedicate myself to being an advocate for the community. 

Q: Looking to the future of Seedlings, what are you most excited about? 

A: I’m most excited to continue Seedlings’ great legacy. Debra started this 40 years ago and I am very excited to work hard each and every day to continue the spirit of Seedlings and honor the work we have done so far. Here’s to another 40!