Experience —

• DESIGN AND PRODUCT LEADER, MICROSOFT — 2020-PRESENT

  I joined Microsoft Flip as an executive design and product leader. I established strategy, vision, and team culture. I recruited, built, and managed a design team, including brand and creative, and co-led multiple cross-functional partnership teams to explore growth opportunities, including community-creator and non-profit initiatives. Through these efforts, we scaled the platform to reach 100M active educators, students, and families.

  Skills: Leadership, product strategy and innovation, design-thinking, and culture.

• DIRECTOR OF PRODUCT, HIGHER GROUND EDUCATION — 2019-2020

  After the acquisition of Montessorium, I played an influential role in setting the digital strategy and vision for design, product, and community at Higher Ground. Leading a team of designers, storytellers, and developers, I oversaw the creation of a cohesive product ecosystem, including brand, identity, editorial, and content strategy.

  Skills: Leadership, team management, design-thinking, brand and storytelling.

• CEO & COFOUNDER, MONTESSORIUM — 2010-2020 *ACQUIRED

  As the CEO of Montessorium, I built and managed a team of designers, engineers, and educators, taking the company from concept to acquisition. From design to pedagogy, I oversaw the development of product strategy and vision, as well as business development, partnerships and licensing. Through my leadership, we raised a Series A and B, built an award-winning and highly recognized brand localized in a dozen languages, and were featured by Apple in two television commercials and an international billboard campaign.

  Skills: Leadership, entrepreneurship, design and strategic thinking, product management and development.

• COFOUNDER & CREATIVE DIRECTOR, BAAN DEK MONTESSORI — 2007-2020 *ACQUIRED

  Established the first accredited Montessori school in the state of South Dakota, advocating for the importance of early childhood education and personalized learning in the community. I recruited, managed, and inspired a team of educators, fostering a culture of excellence in learning and engagement. I helped build the brand into an internationally recognized program, including the publication of a series of early concept books for children that were widely featured, including by the Museum of Modern Art.

  Skills: Entrepreneurship, creativity, leadership, strategy-thinking, culture, resilience.

• CEO & COFOUNDER, FILMDROME — 2010–2012

  As the cofounder of Filmdrome, I established a non-profit dedicated to elevating art, independent, and foreign films in the community. I partnered with local organizations to host educational events, creating opportunities for the community to engage with and learn about different cultures through film. As a result of my efforts, the organization gained recognition and partnerships, including a successful collaboration with the Washington Pavilion and HBO.

  Skills: Advocacy, strategic planning, program management, community engagement.