Kirsten joined the Children and Families Commission in February 2008. As Program Evaluator, she is responsible for evaluating the outcomes and effectiveness of the Prop 10 funded programs. She also provides individual assistance to the programs so that they can most effectively portray the significant impact of the work they do in our county.

Kirsten has a Masters Degree in Economics from Colorado State University, a Masters of Social Work Degree from California State University, Stanislaus, and a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Economics and Japanese Studies from Hobart and William Smith Colleges in New York. She has considerable experience in the areas of research methodology, data analysis, and multidisciplinary approaches to studies. Kirsten has previously worked as an auditor for the Audit Bureau of Circulations, worked with Leaps and Bounds of BHRS, and was the Director of the Turlock Family Resource Center with Aspira Behavioral Health. She has also been involved in the community through volunteer work with numerous organizations including Hospice, Turlock Family Network, Girl Scouts, PTA, and Central Valley Aquatics.

Kirsten loves to spend time with her two children, Leanna and Annika, and travels with them as they swim competitively year round. She also enjoys practicing yoga and meditation, and making soap and candles. The Children and Families Commission embodies many of Kirsten’s own values regarding children, families, and communities, and she feels fortunate to be working in such an organization.