When my youngest child started driving, it hit me. No one really 'needs' me anymore. My kids were still home, they could take themselves to school and to practice and even stop at the grocery store for me and save me a trip.

I needed a new purpose, and that journey turned into what is now The Dorm Guide. I love researching, testing and the challenge of solving problems that arise as families are planning for dorm life. As you'll hear me say often, no two dorm situations are the same, and sometimes, there are very unique issues to solve!

I also started the Dorm Shopping Recommendations & Deal Alerts Facebook Group, where 135K+ parents, often overwhelmed at where to even start, can find practical answers, expert insights, and money-saving strategies.

Before diving into the world of college prep, I spent years in technology and digital marketing. That background fuels my analytical and practical approach to dorm shopping and the ability to use tools and technology to find the best products and easily track price fluctuations.

When I’m not scouting the next dorm must-have or how-to, you can find me traveling (obsessively planned, of course!), cheering at SEC football games with my boys, playing tennis & pickleball, and spending time with friends in my tight-knit neighborhood.

This mission has brought so much meaning and purpose to my now empty-nest status. I love helping families feel confident about college life, and I’m so glad you’ve joined us on this journey!

In the fall of 2024, I had the opportunity to join Lara on the journey to to grow this college-based community when I found myself between career opportunities and decided to dive right in and make this my full-time gig! I’ve spent years in project management, consulting, and business strategy, but this was a chance to be part of something scrappy, purpose-driven, and truly helpful.

As a mom of two college-aged girls, I bring a different perspective than Lara (who has two boys), so together, we’ve got you covered no matter your student’s style. I’ve navigated sorority rush, off-campus apartments, and even study abroad with my daughters, and I love sharing what I’ve learned through the process!

What I love most about what we do? It’s building on the foundation that Lara established by going all-in, doing all of the research needed to provide insights, recommendations and solutions to some of the most interesting dorm & college problems!

A few random things about me? I’ve moved all over the country from east to west to south! I met my husband my freshman year of college, and 30+ years later, he still puts up with me. And when I’m not researching dorm must-haves, you’ll find me traveling, hanging out with our two dogs, and cheering on my favorite SEC teams.

Hi, I’m Dorm Dog—The Dorm Guide’s official mascot and your four-legged friend on this college journey!

I joined Lara and the team in the summer of 2024 and became an instant expert as testing mattress toppers and rooting through every box that enters the house. While I may not write the posts or pack the bins, I’m always nearby when Lara is hard at work, fetching the best tips, finds, and inspiration for dorm and college life.

You’ll spot me on social media making surprise cameos (I hear I photograph well), or keeping watch while we help families navigate everything from dorm shopping to first-day jitters. I’ve got a great nose for what works—and I only recommend what I’d use myself And yes, I can now jump up to a 40" high raised dorm bed, no ottoman or step stool required!

A few fun facts? I love long walks, chasing pesky deer out of the backyard, and waiting by the door when my dad gets home from a trip so we can catch up while mom continues on her laptop. Whether you're team bark or team wag, I’m here to keep things light, helpful, and always a little more fun.

Let’s make dorm life paws-itively awesome!