- I grew up in St. Louis, Missouri. I lived walking distance to the Botanical Gardens and went there frequently. Maybe that’s where I developed my love of plants.
- When I wrote my first book, I sent a copy to my 3rd grade teacher, Miss Sinks. She's still teaching at my elementary school! Her principal borrowed the book to use for his dissertation. I’m quite proud of that.
- I love to cook. When I lived in Virginia, I would host Thanksgiving for faculty and students who couldn't get home. I make a pretty delicious southern macaroni and cheese.
- "Bambi" comes by my house daily to eat my plants. I have come to think of him as a friend. This year, I will simply plant extra. My garden is really just food for the animals.
- I lived in Africa for 15 months. I was there on a Fulbright Teacher Exchange. I lived in Durban and taught in a rural community two hours away. My colleagues and I commuted four hours round trip five days a week.
- I paint and I make pottery. Being covered in clay is the great joy of my life. As an academic, I can get lost in data and information that must be correct. Making art allows me to make mistakes. It also exercises a different part of my brain.
- I am obsessed with decorating shows. I love watching people find homes where they can see themselves forever. Home is very important to me and I love seeing people create a comfortable home for themselves.
- I am an only child. There were no siblings whose examples I needed to follow. I always believed that the entire world was my oyster because I had no parameters.
- I went to Spelman College in Atlanta. Attending an HBCU [Historically Black College and University] was the best decision that I could make for my career. Having professors who looked like me showed me what was possible. Also, HBCUs draw incredible talent. Martin Luther King's sister, Dr. Christine King Farris, was my professor and Stacey Abrams was my classmate.
- I came to Siena 2 1/2 years ago and am thrilled to be here! I started my career in New York City and am so happy to be in the state. NYC is too fast-paced for me now. Upstate is perfect.
. 