What positive impact do you believe your work does/can have on (your) people, places, and planet?

This question is asked by Transformational Travel Council (TTC) on their application to become a TTC Ambassador. Sharing my answer here to bring light to, and share my story …

My background is an as educator, guiding youth in transformative life journeys that go far beyond the traditional "classroom" experience, designed toward discovering what is inside and having real-time learning to interact with the outside world in a way that allows true self to emerge and bring forth one's potential, with service to others in mind.

As co-founder of CT Experiential Learning Center (CELC), I designed ways to bring learning to life, that asked of students to be curious, to reflect, to wonder and be ready, to become comfortable with the unknown. Asking to try, and know that what is hard becomes easy, usually! From Guilford, CT to Guatemala, we purposefully set out to experience the world in new ways, broadening perspective and tapping into different parts of oneself, allowing new neural connections, growth, awe, through intentional learning journeys.

I now lead group trips and incorporate ways for travelers to connect with local organizations and people in each destination. I believe there are many ways to connect and honor human expression on this planet. It is important in understanding our humanness, to find similarities, to celebrate and honor differences.

Travel is a pathway to learning and understanding. I am developing a travel coaching/mentorship component to encourage others who are interested in expanding awareness and exploring travel as a practice toward real growth and transformation.

I will be part of the next Cohort in the Walking Mentorship program in January 2026. I envision myself as a guide and facilitator of transformative journeys that help awaken to discover the spirit and light within. To build upon the ways nature is a healer and teacher.

I would like to continue to work with youth, women, elders, and also to bring people who otherwise may not afford to venture, to engage in the practice of travel.

I continue to share in my passion for travel as a way to open hearts and minds, to remember to be curious, to be grateful, and to find the stillness within that contains the spark and life force we all share.

Thank you, Transformational Travel Council for your continued inspiration, truth, wisdom!