How did you find out about United Way of Central Maryland and the Central Maryland Regional Veterans Treatment Court?
I learned about VTC at a presentation at the Veterans Legal Assistance Conference at the University of Baltimore Law a few years ago. I started observing VTC in April 2025 and then started mentoring later that year. On the day I went for my first observation, there was a graduation. I had no idea what the veteran had been through to get to that moment, but I could sense how hard he had worked, how much support he had from the VTC team, how proud he was of himself, and the joy of his family being with him to honor his achievement. It was inspiring to see the outcome for this veteran, and I wanted to be part of that supportive environment for other veterans.
What made you want to become a mentor?
I have a few reasons. First, I am qualified! As a veteran, this is something I could do for my fellow veterans. For me, it is important to have women veterans represented in general and to support women veterans in VTC, and so that was part of my “I want to do this because I can do this” reason. Second, I wanted the opportunity to support veterans in their highs and lows. There is nothing better than celebrating an achievement, putting a dog tag around a veteran’s neck, or handing over a gift card. But it is just as important to be there by their side when things go wrong, letting them know they are not a failure, and they can pick back up and keep working toward their goals. I see my role as making sure they know they are not alone, that they are seen and heard and respected. Third, I felt a duty to serve my fellow veterans and VTC as part of my overall professional and personal commitment to veterans’ advocacy work. I am a veteran law scholar and advocate. I do pro bono work and teach veterans law at the University of Baltimore School of Law. Service is deeply ingrained in me, and I find it personally rewarding to be able to help others. Giving time and support to veterans at VTC is how I honor and stand with all who have served.
What’s a memory you’ve experienced during your time as a mentor that stands out to you?
In addition to the graduation from my first day observing, I have witnessed so many transformations. One veteran always sat in the back of the courtroom, isolated, and never smiled. She reminded me of shipmates from my time in the Navy, even though our paths did not cross. I knew the environment she had served in. She usually gave the judge one- or two-word answers, was never disrespectful but also not really engaging. I admire the judge for her ability to know how to connect with the veterans, even when it can take months to get a breakthrough moment–it’s one of her superpowers. I was there for a breakthrough moment with this veteran. She was talking to the judge. She smiled. The judge remarked on her smiling, how nice it was to see and how glad the whole team was to see that. I saw the veteran relax in that moment, finally feeling safe enough to let her guard down, recognize her progress, and feel pride in herself for what she was accomplishing.
Click here to learn more about United Way of Central Maryland and the Central Maryland Regional Veterans Treatment Court or to donate to support veterans.
