I grew up in Amish country (Kidron, OH). Actually, my dad was raised Amish. My family was English (had electricity and drove cars), but still have immediate Amish family that I am close with and can speak the language. After my collegiate athletic career came to an end, I enjoyed running and fitness. I worked as a nurse in internal medicine before leaving that field to serve communities in China and India. My time spent caring for women in the brothels of India has developed a deep desire for justice on behalf of the enslaved. The combination of my passion to serve the enslaved and enjoyment of fitness served as a key catalyst to the creation of Aruna, an impact driven athleisure brand creating lifelong freedom for victims of human trafficking through employment marked by holistic care. All our products are handcrafted by women freed, employed, and empowered. My role continues to develop the customer experience within Aruna to fuel the organization to greater growth and greater impact in bringing and sustaining freedom.
Please tell us a little bit about your family.
My husband is the other Co-Founder of Aruna, and together we serve victims of human trafficking in different roles. We were high school sweethearts, and stayed together after he played D1 basketball and I played softball at different colleges. We have three teenage children who play sports, and we love supporting them in all they enjoy doing. We have two football players, one basketball, and a daughter who loves soccer. We love the beach for vacation. We enjoy family dinners, and often enjoy playing board/card games together.
Please tell us about your current, past, or future career. What do you love most about what you do?
After college I was a nurse in Internal Medicine, then moved on to serving women in South Asia in the brothels. A love for fitness and fashion fueled the desire to create an athleisure brand that would promote sustainable freedom. Now serving women in India and here in Cincinnati who were victims of sex trafficking and employing them, it is the most fulfilling career I could ask for. Being a voice for those who have been silenced, showing them they are not property to be owned, but extremely valuable is what I love. Their resilience is incredible and has taught me more than I could have imagined.
What are a couple of your favorite restaurants in our community?
I love so many, this is hard! Some faves are: Taste of Belgium, Green Papaya and The Precinct to name a few.
How long have you lived or worked in our community?
I moved to Cincy in 2006, and started Aruna in 2014.
Who is the most interesting person you’ve met here in our community?
When we started Aruna, we met Vinny Rey (Bengals player). His heart to help us free more enslaved has been incredible. He and his wife are the real deal and our boys look up to him as a leader and great role model.
If you could travel anywhere in the world right now, where would it be and why?
The Caribbean. Who isn’t exhausted and wants a vacation! 🙂
What is one of your favorite movies? TV shows?
Hitch or any of the Avenger movies; and TV show is Grey’s Anatomy!
What advice would you give to people?
Don’t be afraid to start something—a business, nonprofit etc.—when you feel you need to do something, go after it. Yes, it is hard, but when the goal is for others, do it for them. Don’t ignore the nudge to do something for others and be a world changer.
What is something on your bucket list?
Go to Lambeau Field and watch the Green Bay Packers play at home (huge Packers fan here).
What is your go-to music when you can’t decide what to listen to?
Boys II Men, Maroon 5 or Zac Brown Band (depends on the mood).
What current or former local business makes you the most nostalgic about our community?
The Precinct or Montgomery Inn Boathouse, I didn’t grow up in Cincy but those always seem steady and true Cincinnati.
If you could choose anyone that is alive today and not a relative; with whom would you love to have lunch? Why? And where locally would you meet for this lunch?
Joanna Gaines. I think we would be good friends. She is an entrepreneur, in business with her husband, and with a heart to help people. I would love to hear her life experiences. We would go to the Green Papaya and chat over sushi.
What is your favorite thing or something unique about our community?
I love how this is a City and has all great places to shop, eat, and explore, yet feels like a smaller hometown. And still don’t understand why everyone asks what high school you went to! Makes me smile.
Where do you see yourself in 5 to 10 years?
Still in Cincinnati, but hopefully with businesses in multiple locations internationally and U.S (maybe Florida) with Aruna impacting hundreds more locally and in Asia to see trafficking end in our lifetime.
What is something interesting that most people don’t know about you?
I can sing (and play the saxophone) but was always too shy and quiet to develop and perform in front of people.
What is the most beautiful place you have ever been?
Bermuda. We were invited to visit, and the water and island is absolutely gorgeous. I have never seen waters and coral reefs that beautiful and colorful.
Favorite month? Favorite holiday? Best single day on the calendar?
Month: December. Holiday: Christmas! Best single day is Nov 1….Halloween is over, and I get a Red cup from Starbucks and start listening to Christmas music!! (Yes, I am thankful and love Thanksgiving and Black Friday shopping too!)
What would you rate a 10 out of 10?
Cincinnati streets in the spring with the Red Bud trees, and Magnolia’s blooming.
Who inspires you to be better?
My husband Ryan. He is my best friend, and challenges me in both serving others and he makes life so much more fun.
What is one or two of your favorite smells?
Coffee in the morning and fresh cut flowers.
Finally, what 3 words or phrases come to mind when you think of the word HOME?
Love, family and comfort.
