Kristen has worked with children and their families for more than 25 years in a variety of capacities, including as a teacher, Federal agency education advisor, college administrator, and in family support for Birth to Five Programs. Kristen serves as Maryland’s Ambassador for both the CDC’s “Learn the Signs. Act Early.” and DEC/ECTA Recommended Practices programs. She leads PPMD’s Baby LEADers and Family Data Leaders parent training programs and other early childhood initiatives. She was recently awarded the 2025 DEC Family Award, which is given to a Division for Early Childhood (DEC) member who is a family member of a child with a disability and has made significant contributions through service to the field and community. Kristen serves on the State Interagency Coordinating Council for Infants and Toddlers, State Early Childhood Advisory Council, and numerous other committees, work groups, and collaborative efforts to improve the outcomes of Maryland’s youngest residents and their families. She resides in St. Mary’s County – where she serves on the Local Management Board, Early Childhood Advisory Council, and Citizens’ Advisory Committee for Special Education (CACSE) – with her husband and young son.