I am a writer and writing teacher and my joy comes when I see my students find themselves and their voices on the page. Writing changes people and changes the way people see the world. I’ve been a writer and reader my whole life and have taught writing workshops across the country. I’ve been a teaching writer with the ICA for ten years. Growing up in Hawaii, I learned the power of stories and sharing stories, and I use fiction, memoir, and poetry as a way for my students to find their way into the stories they want to write and share. I’ve written children’s books about Hawaii, short stories, creative nonfiction, and am always working on a writing project. I am an Assistant Professor of English and Creative Writing at the College of Western Idaho.

Special Populations I work with:
I enjoy working with all ages and have taught creative writing to elementary school students through adults. For years I’ve taught creative writing to at-risk youth, refugees, veterans, and under-served populations and have had incredibly rewarding learning experiences with those students. I am comfortable and confident teaching students and adults of all ages and learning styles.