Director of Community Partnerships

How has your career grown since you started?

My career has grown through opportunities to lead meaningful community impact and build partnerships that expand access to care. As Director of Community Partnerships, I have been able to shape and strengthen collaborations across healthcare, education, public safety and community organizations, creating pathways that support individuals and families more effectively.

Oaklawn has provided an environment that values leadership development, innovation and mission-driven work, allowing me to grow professionally while making a tangible difference in the community. This role reflects Oaklawn’s commitment to investing in its people and empowering leaders to create lasting, system-level change.

What do you look forward to each day at work?

Collaborating with passionate colleagues who are deeply committed to making a difference. I get to build meaningful partnerships, solve complex challenges, and help create systems that better support individuals and families in our community. I also value the variety and purpose in my role. No two days are the same, and each day brings the chance to learn, grow, and contribute to work that truly matters

What’s a memorable or rewarding experience you’ve had on the job?

Seeing a partnership move from an initial conversation to real impact for the community. Watching different organizations come together, align around a shared goal and ultimately improve access to services for individuals and families is incredibly fulfilling. Knowing that these collaborations help people receive support earlier, navigate systems more easily and experience better outcomes reinforces why the work matters and makes the challenges worthwhile.

What makes Oaklawn unique compared to other workplaces?

 It combines a strong mission-driven culture with a deep commitment to both the people it serves and the people who work here. The organization emphasizes person-centered, community-based care while actively investing in collaboration, innovation and long-term solutions rather than short-term fixes. Oaklawn values partnerships, encourages growth at every level and supports staff in bringing new ideas forward. This balance of compassion, accountability and continuous improvement allows Oaklawn to make a meaningful, lasting impact in the communities it serves. The amount of professional development given to staff on models that are evidence based and done to fidelity are second to none.

What are some ways you feel supported at Oaklawn?

Leadership trusts and empowers me to do my work while providing guidance when it’s needed. The organization invests in professional growth through training, collaboration and opportunities to take on new challenges. There is also a strong emphasis on teamwork and open communication, creating an environment where ideas are valued and staff are encouraged to problem-solve together. Oaklawn’s commitment to work-life balance, staff wellbeing, and mission-driven work makes it a place where people feel respected, supported, and able to succeed