A desire to combat climate change and protect our open spaces was what first animated my participation in government and advocacy. As I got older and had the opportunity to earn undergraduate and graduate degrees, I started to see how determinative transportation and land use policy are in environmental outcomes which pushed me into my work today. Along the way I was incredible lucky to have the support of my parents as well as professional mentors and friends. 

Alongside my colleagues at PCAC and elected officials, I fought to expand half-fares for senior and disabled New Yorkers to apply 24/7 on Metro-North and the Long Island Railroads and to end the practice of charging 12-17-year-old commuter rail riders the full adult fare. I was thrilled to see the MTA Board adopt these long overdue policies at their September board meeting.

Try your best to be unintimidated. While everyone contends with some degree of imposter syndrome, I’ve found it very grounding and empowering to remember that ultimately everyone, even the most prominent among us, is a person just like you.

As someone who moved here relatively recently, I’m not sure I can claim that title yet. But I will say that I’ve gained a serious appreciation and affinity for quality pizza, bagels, and public transportation.