Nevada State Board of Social Work Examiners
Term ends: n/a
Please give a brief biography, including your education, licensure or certification level and employment history:
I earned my Bachelor of Social Work degree in 2001 and Master of Social Work degree in 2002 from the University of Nevada, Reno. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with more than 25 years of experience in clinical practice, behavioral health, healthcare, administration, education, and professional regulation. I currently serve as Executive Director of the Nevada State Board of Social Work Examiners. Previously, I was a Clinical Program Manager supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. My career has included clinical and leadership roles in medical, forensic, mental health, and geriatric psychiatric settings, including serving as Director of Social Work for both state and private psychiatric hospitals. Each role has broadened my knowledge and strengthened my clinical and leadership skills. I also teach graduate-level Social Work courses at the University of Nevada, Reno and Boise State University and chair Nevada’s statewide Health Care Workforce Working Group.
Give a synopsis of your regulatory and professional experience. Please emphasize your involvement with ASWB:
I currently serve on the ASWB Board of Directors as a Director-at-Large and Member Board Administrator, a position to which I was elected in 2026. I serve as the board liaison to the Regulations and Standards Committee and previously served as liaison to the Education Committee. My involvement with ASWB began with New Board Member training in 2016. Since then, I have participated in numerous Delegate Assembly and Education meetings, serving as Nevada’s delegate, and have expanded my knowledge of social work regulation through service on the Regulations and Standards, Bylaws, and Nominating Committees. My experience in social work regulation began in November 2015 when I was appointed by the Governor to the Nevada State Board of Social Work Examiners. I quickly assumed the role of Secretary and was elected Board President in 2017, serving in that capacity until my term concluded in 2022. I later transitioned to regulatory leadership as the Board’s Executive Director, further strengthening my commitment to advancing the profession through effective regulation, collaboration, and leadership.
Finally, make a brief statement on the major issues you see facing ASWB, and how you would address them:
As a Director-at-Large, Member Board Administrator, I see several important issues facing ASWB, including examination access and pass rates, licensure mobility, workforce needs, and diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI). I believe examination remains an important component of licensure and public protection by assessing foundational competencies. At the same time, we must continue examining research and identifying ways to reduce barriers and ensure the licensure process is fair, accessible, and equitable for all applicants. I also believe ASWB has an important role in advancing the Social Work Interstate Compact and supporting a diverse workforce. Continued collaboration with member boards and stakeholders will be essential. I would bring the perspective of a state regulator while listening to diverse viewpoints and supporting practical, equitable solutions that protect the public, strengthen licensure, and advance the social work profession.