I'm a native of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, and received degrees from the University of Scranton and Widener University. I'd say the critical thinking skills I received from my Jesuit education at the University of Scranton prepared me well for all aspects of my personal and professional career. I moved to Los Angeles in 2003 after two years teaching elementary school on a Hawaiian Homestead, an indigenous enclave on the Waianae Coast of Oahu. I am currently a middle school teacher in Compton, California. As a 7th grader, my art teacher was very discouraging of my talent. As a result, my artistic career did not begin until my late 20's. Although I am not a credentialed art teacher, I instill my love of art with my students and encourage them with projects I develop. Having received no formal training in an arts program, I consider myself primarily a self-taught artist. However, I do jump at every opportunity to learn more about artistic techniques, art history, and experimenting with new mediums. Many of my creations are known for their edgy social commentary. As an emerging artist, my work has been displayed at the Los Angeles County Municipal Art Gallery, several group shows in the Los Angeles area, and in private collections.