On The Issues
Heather's top priority is to keep humanity at the heart of any discussions about the issues affecting our community. With this in mind, here is where she stands on the issues:
Education
Public funds are for public schools. There must be a financial investment in our children by the state along with a local coordination of resources with community partners. Prioritizing funding for our public schools ensures that we invest in the common good and that every child has access to a high-quality education, regardless of their background or circumstances. It is crucial to understand education's role as "the great equalizer" and that supporting public schools goes beyond a narrow focus on individual usage, affirming a commitment to the broader community. Just as we contribute taxes for various public services that benefit society at large, supporting public education ensures that every child, regardless of their upbringing or socioeconomic status, has the opportunity to receive a top-notch education. This collective investment in the future paves the way for the next generation of leaders who will be poised, empowered, and prepared to assume vital roles in society as they are expected to step into the responsibilities that lie ahead.
As a proud graduate of two Kentucky universities, Heather is committed to advocating for policies that make higher education financially accessible, ensuring that our community thrives through a well-educated workforce. No one should be priced out of getting a college education. Heather also values the very important role that trade schools play in building a skilled and dynamic workforce. Trade education develops individuals into skilled workers that are fundamental to the functioning of our communities. Heather's commitment to education extends to promoting the inherent value of both traditional higher education and trade schools, acknowledging the diverse abilities and talents of the people of our Commonwealth.
Women's Reproductive Health
In 2022, Kentucky voters rejected a ballot measure designed to deny any constitutional protections for abortion. The people have spoken on their belief that a woman should be able to terminate a pregnancy within certain exceptions under the law. Heather stands with the majority of Kentuckians on this issue and supports common sense exceptions to the ban on abortion. It is crucial to Heather that we navigate this continued conversation with empathy and understanding, recognizing that these are deeply personal decisions that individuals may face.
Heather firmly believes in the importance of comprehensive reproductive healthcare, ensuring that individuals have access to information, resources, and support. While our state's laws may not align with the full spectrum of reproductive rights, Heather will always support policies that prioritize women's health, well-being, and autonomy.
Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
Yes, please! As a Christian, Heather recognizes the inherent value in every individual as they are created in the image of God. She emphasizes the importance of treating everyone with respect, acknowledging that as humans, we may not always have a complete understanding of people, their experiences, or their perspectives that are different than our own. Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion practices help us recognize our differences as unique strengths that enhance the richness of our collective experiences. By cultivating a culture that opposes premature judgment or harmful assumptions, she encourages awareness and mindfulness in all of our interactions to build a stronger community.
Beshear's Better Kentucky Plan
Heather is a strong supporter of Governor Beshear's Better Kentucky Plan to strengthen the state's economy. A majority of voters in the 64th district voted to re-elect Governor Beshear, and Heather is ready to stand with Governor Beshear in Frankfort to help him build strong communities in every corner of the commonwealth.
About Heather
Heather lives in Independence with her husband, Nick, and their son and daughter who are teenagers. Heather is a graduate of NKU Chase College of Law, where she formerly served as an Assistant Dean. While a law student, she was a Big Sister with the Big Brothers Big Sisters program of Greater Cincinnati. During her time at Western Kentucky University as an undergraduate student, she served as a mentor for the War Memorial Boys and Girls Club. In 2017, Heather received national recognition from the American Bar Association for her achievement, innovation, and leadership. Heather is an active member of the Prichard Committee for Academic Excellence and has previously served as the attorney member for the Protection and Advocacy for Individuals with Mental Illness (PAIMI) Council Advisory Board.
As a proud Kentuckian, Heather has seen the incredible potential of our state firsthand. A bright trail was blazed by her grandfather, a veteran, who proudly served as a warden in Kentucky’s correctional system and by her grandmother who was a leader in integrating Kentucky's public schools. Heather is deeply rooted in the fabric of our community and what it means to be a public servant. She believes in the power of Kentucky and is committed to ensuring a promising future for generations to come. It is that belief that led her to become an attorney, beginning her career as a public defender in Northern Kentucky. This same commitment later guided her to the field of higher education.
Heather stands ready to represent the practical values of the people of Kentucky’s 64th District and welcomes your support to make a real difference.
Heather’s Quick Facts
- Wife
- Mother
- Published author
- Dedicated Community Servant
- Product of a private, Catholic education and the public educational system
- Attorney
- Extensive leadership experience in higher education at public and private institutions
- Favorite movie: Up
- Favorite book: Memoirs of an Imaginary Friend
- Favorite thing to do: Spend time with family and friends (in the winter I love cuddling with the family under heavy blankets while watching our favorite television shows)