Shanti Ghar
Faced with a new season of life, I searched out a name for this next phase that would set the tone for how I would choose to handle another one of life’s detours. The term “Shanti Ghar” or “peaceful home” surfaced. Immediately I knew, this was it. Peace and joy are themes throughout life that we must learn to find in all circumstances. Home is more than a building, it is a community, a sense of belonging, and most importantly something that reaches far beyond four walls. A “peaceful home” is what many of us are truly searching for when we strive to achieve professionally and personally. The end goal is comfort, belonging, and acceptance.

Bio
Public policy centered around people with developmental disabilities and their families has been my area of professional focus since 1993. It was then that my oldest son, Steven, started to show delays in his development. This journey has taken me from providing individualized care to leading comprehensive system reform efforts, related to people with disabilities and special healthcare needs, throughout Maryland.

The need to find and secure services and supports for Steven at home led to a realization that navigating the State’s system was equivalent to winding my way through a nightmarish maze. Persistance carried me through enabling me to earn a Bachelors in Social Work from Hood College, followed by a Master’s in Social Work, with a specialization in Health and Community Organization from the University of Maryland. I am currently pursuing a PhD in Public Policy and Administration with a focus on systems reform and effective advocacy.

Steven’s disabilities eventually took his life in 2003; however, he touched countless people in his short ten years. His younger brother Hunter stands tall and strong demonstrating that no matter one’s age, we all have the ability to find peace no matter the storm.