Bloomingfoods is one of my happiest places in Bloomington, and I’m excited to support a cooperative model grounded in equity and democracy. I want to help provide a safe, welcoming space where the community can access nutritious food and support local vendors in a way that reflects shared values.

I shop weekly at Bloomingfoods and enjoy supporting local vendors alongside trusted brands like KeVita and Field Day. Before moving here, I spent 10 years as a regular at La Montanita Co-op in New Mexico. I also seek out co-ops when traveling—Willy Street Co-op in Madison is a favorite discovery!

I’ve served five years on the board of New Mexico Evaluators, connecting evaluators across the state. I also partner with grassroots groups to support health access in rural communities. I value shared learning, curiosity, and collaboration in small group settings and appreciate how collective efforts lead to real impact.

As a public health researcher, I work to improve equity in rural health and social services. My training emphasizes community based participatory research to understanding barriers to access. I bring experience in policy, program evaluation, and a deep commitment to community-driven solutions—especially related to food, wellness, and cultural responsiveness.

Supporting local is a priority for me, even as a graduate student. I intentionally choose Bloomingfoods for its alignment with my values—environmental sustainability, education, and equitable access. I believe in food as a powerful tool for change and aim to make thoughtful consumer choices whenever possible.

BCS should reflect and serve the needs of its member-owners by championing food access, sustainability, and education. The board’s role is to guide and support initiatives that foster equity, build local partnerships, and ensure the co-op remains a community-led, values-driven space accessible to all.

There’s great opportunity to build economic resilience by investing in local systems. However, challenges like the loss of SNAP benefits threaten access to healthy foods. BCS must adapt and advocate for affordability, while continuing to uplift equitable practices, local vendors, and sustainable strategies that serve diverse community needs.

I’d be honored to serve on the BCS board. Cooperative markets bring me joy and connection. So much so that when I came to tour IU last year, my first stop minutes after arriving in town was Bloomingfoods – where it instantly felt like home. I bring both passion and practical experience to support the co-op’s mission and help it thrive into the future.