Father & Foster Dad. Scientist & Teacher. Community Leader & Volunteer.

My Service to the Community

After graduating from Purdue University with a degree in ecology, I left my home state of Indiana. I went to Nicaragua to serve as a United Methodist Missionary. I learned Spanish and worked alongside Nicaraguans to build an eco-tourism operation that provided jobs for local families and a sustainable alternative to deforestation. It was there in the Central American rainforest where I first experienced the power of community in finding long-term social and economic solutions.

Throughout my life I have used those skills to bring people together. I have also always had a strong desire to invest in our youth. I worked with area churches in Albuquerque, New Mexico, to find the resources for an after-school program for at-risk youth. Later, while attending graduate school in Hawaii, I took a hiatus from my studies to teach environmental sciences at a middle school. One of my students was honored nationally by the Discovery Channel for his science fair project on aquaponics. I continue to take every opportunity to share my passion for science, the environment, and sustainability with youth.

Today, I work for Eco-Cycle, a nonprofit organization based in Boulder. I am excited about my work in bringing community partners together to improve recycling services and education at the local and state level. Just last year, I worked with businesses like Molson Coors Beverage Company, trash hauling companies, municipalities, and the Colorado Governor's Office to pass major legislation that will bring new recycling businesses and jobs to Colorado.

Since 2016, I have served as a volunteer on the city council-appointed Arvada Sustainability Advisory Committee, working to improve recycling services through organized waste hauling and create a community climate action plan. I also volunteer with my church, Arvada United Methodist Church, cooking for the unhoused at The Rising Church, visiting with families in Family Promise of Greater Denver, singing in the choir, and directing the annual children's Christmas Pageant.

Family Life

I grew up in Indianapolis, Indiana, the only child to two teachers, Nancy and Clem Moorman. One of my earliest childhood memories is my dad telling me, "Son, don't start a job unless you are going to complete it. And if you are going to do a job, make sure you do it right." That work ethic has driven my endeavors ever since.

I met my husband Scott teaching Sunday school at church in Washington D.C. Scott and I married in Hawaii and moved to Colorado to start a family. We fostered several infants and teens through Jefferson County Foster Care, and in 2016 we met Joey, our son. Joey is now 22 and lives in Aurora. In 2017, Scott suffered a severe stroke and has worked hard through rehabilitation to hold a part-time job at a local auto store. We both enjoy cooking, hiking, gardening and traveling. I am also an avid bird watcher.

My extended family includes all our great neighbors, coworkers, and fellow members of Arvada United Methodist Church. We have shared life's joys and support each other through the hardships.