Brief Bio
I have lived in Wyoming since 2001, when I arrived to complete
an advanced degree in physical anthropology at the University
of Wyoming. I am married with two children, ages 5 and 10
months, and reside within the city of Laramie. In addition
to the MA obtained from UW, I hold BA and BS degrees from
institutions in Washington State (The Evergreen State College)
and Virginia (James Madison University). I'm proud to call
Laramie and Albany County my home.
Professional
Since living in Wyoming, I have worked for the State
Historic Preservation Office and the Wyoming
Survey & Analysis Center (WYSAC) through the University
of Wyoming. I am currently a Research Scientist at WYSAC.
Medicolegal Interest and Education
I began with the Albany County Coroner's Office (ACCO)
in 2004 for practical experience to augment my forensic
and physical-anthropological education background. Just
prior to joining the ACCO, I completed intensive coursework
in medicolegal death investigation through the Wayne County
Medical Examiner's Office in Detroit. I was very interested
in forensic investigation at the time I began, and this
interest has only grown with the additional time that I've
spent with the Coroner's Office.
Why did I run for County Coroner?
I would gladly have continued to work as a Deputy Coroner
for the Albany County Coroner's Office under Julie Heggie,
and had no driving interest in becoming County Coroner as
long as Julie was in charge. However, she had decided to
move on to other pursuits after several terms as County
Coroner, leaving a vacancy in the position. This opened
the door for me to fill her shoes, and I feel that I have
the training, experience and enthusiasm for the position
to competently do so.
Additionally, it was important for the citizens of Albany
County that this office be filled by a person with investigative
and medicolegal training. It is always good general practice
in government—especially in legal contexts—to maintain checks
and balances in the execution of official duties.
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