Council District 1

I am a respected community leader, a committed healthcare professional, and a passionate voice for the underserved marginalized communities in Lexington. Humility, integrity, and grace were instilled within me from day one by my grandmother Mary Ann Henderson, the first African American to graduate from the University of Kentucky. These values have led me to my calling which is public service. I received my Bachelor’s in Sociology with a minor in Philosophy and my Masters in Public Administration. Throughout my journey, I have co-founded a nonprofit: Resilience Charity, and I serve Lexington as a healthcare professional in the Operating Room. Likewise, I've served as an Intern in the 1st District Council Office under Councilman James Brown, and I was a full-time Legislative Aide serving the 1st District. Simplyput, I am well rooted in the 1st District and ready to collaboratively address our challenges head-on by drawing from my knowledge, experience, upbringing, and solid values.

The highest priority issue facing our district is community safety and the need for expanded youth engagement via programming and resources. We must address our community safety challenges and youth engagement challenges head-on. If elected I will make sure that the quality of life and safety of our constituents is put at the forefront, ensuring that there is access to accessible leadership, information, and resources, while addressing each challenge. I will advocate for community violence intervention; investing in outreach activities programs and year-round resources tailored to the youth. I will provide an amplified presence of mental health resources. I will leverage funds to provide the district with traffic-calming infrastructure aiming to create safer streets and roads. No challenge is too big.

I strongly believe constituents' voices and concerns should be the driving force for decision-making in local government. As Councilmembers, we must make sure constituents are informed about what's taking place and receive the opportunity to give input. If elected, I will be an accessible leader who is attentive, responsive, and willing to share information timely. I will ensure all 1st district constituent's concerns are heard and relayed through the correct city channels when needed. I will host regular update forums, use social media, provide newsletters, and communicate relevant issues timely to the 1st district constituents. Likewise, I will have multiple avenues of communication so that constituents can have access to my office.

My vision for the 1st District and Lexington as a whole is to be a servant leader on a mission to unify our community by following three principles, accessible leadership, sharing information and resources, and addressing all of our challenges head-on through innovative solutions. In doing so I believe we will create a unified, safe, and thriving district that is powered by constituent voices consisting of inclusivity, transparency, access to high-quality city services, and responsible and equitable growth.
My vision for District 1 and Lexington are relayed through my beliefs:
I believe that every individual has value, regardless of their background or socioeconomic status. I am committed to creating an inclusive community where everyone is respected and supported. I believe in the power of constituent voices. I will actively seek out the expertise of constituents and organizations in our community who are closest to the challenges we face. Together, we will work collaboratively to find solutions that benefit everyone. I believe in the importance of listening and acknowledging all concerns. Elected leaders should never diminish the viewpoints of their constituents. I will always have an open ear and ensure that every concern is heard and addressed. I believe in transparency and accountability. It is essential for elected officials to be open and honest in their actions and decisions. I will prioritize transparency, ensuring that constituents are well-informed about the decisions and actions taken on their behalf. I believe in responsible, equitable, and sustainable growth for Lexington. I will advocate for necessary investments in the 1st District while ensuring that the needs of our constituents are not left behind. By using data-driven approaches, we can achieve responsible and equitable growth that benefits everyone. I believe in centering the needs of the 1st District constituents, ensuring access to beautifully maintained parks, responsive public services, and excellent public safety. These elements are crucial for a flourishing city, and I am committed to providing top-line public service while supporting and advocating for all city employees. I believe in the value of artistic expression. Through dance, music, theater, painting, books, fashion, and architecture, people's stories are told. I am dedicated to creating opportunities for artists from all backgrounds to showcase their talents and convey their artistic expression.