My career in music began in Philadelphia in my early 20s as a guitarist and songwriter for Dandelion, signed with Columbia Records. During this period, we achieved Billboard chart rankings, released several albums and singles, and our music featured in multiple movie soundtracks. We also appeared in high-profile press outlets like Rolling Stone Magazine. I had the privilege of touring with iconic artists, including Radiohead, The Ramones, Flaming Lips, GWAR, Bad Brains, Jewel, and Alanis Morrissette, and participated in Lollapalooza’s side stage.

After relocating to Portland, OR, in 2001, I immersed myself in the local arts scene, notably through a musical theater production commissioned by Portland Metro that highlighted environmental sustainability. This production, performed for 15 years, reached hundreds of thousands across the region. My collaboration with Tears of Joy Theatre yielded numerous projects, including original orchestral compositions for Oscar Wilde’s “The Happy Prince.” Serving as President of Tears of Joy Theatre’s Board of Directors from 2014-2019, I led initiatives to expand outreach and educational programs, forming key partnerships to introduce puppetry and storytelling to a diverse youth audience.

In 2006, I founded the Portland branch of School of Rock, initially as the music director and later as VP of Company and Franchise Operations. Following my tenure at School of Rock, I founded an art gallery, cRdn, and a music school, Rockschool PDX, both situated in Old Town. These ventures have allowed me to engage with a broad spectrum of individuals and communities, reinforcing my belief in the arts as a unifying force that fosters belonging and community cohesion.

Now, as a Program Manager at the District Four Coalition, I am eager to leverage my extensive background in the arts to further enhance our community engagement and program development efforts. My experience has equipped me with unique insights into creating inclusive environments and innovative programs that resonate with diverse community needs, aligning with the Coalition’s mission to empower and uplift through collaborative initiatives.