07/13/2026
This weekend, I had the privilege of attending the Jae Foundation Ambassador Retreat at the Double J Ranch alongside about 20 other ambassadors from across the state. Going into the weekend, I honestly didn’t know what to expect. I wasn’t sure what the agenda looked like, what the sessions would involve, or how I would leave feeling.
What I found was something far more meaningful than I could have imagined.
I had the opportunity to meet some truly incredible people, each with a unique story that shaped their connection to the Jae Foundation and fueled their passion for its mission. Despite our different backgrounds and experiences, we found common ground in our desire to make a meaningful impact.
Throughout the weekend, we spent time on horseback, grounding ourselves in nature and disconnecting from the distractions of everyday life. That space allowed us to connect with one another on a much deeper level. We shared stories, experiences, laughter, tears, and moments of vulnerability that were as genuine as they were unforgettable.
The sessions challenged the way I think and pushed me to dig deeper into who I am, what I want, and how I want to continue making an impact in this world. More importantly, they gave me a deeper understanding of where my purpose truly comes from. I realized it wasn’t born from the positive moments or successes I’ve experienced in life. Instead, it was shaped through adversity, trauma, and the difficult seasons that tested me. It was forged through the mentors who chose to invest in me—both within my profession and outside of it—people who believed in me, challenged me, and helped me become who I am today. That realization gave me an even greater appreciation for the responsibility I have to be that same source of encouragement and guidance for others.
One exercise revisited identifying my core values. I’ve done this before, but it’s something I hadn’t intentionally reflected on in the last few years. Revisiting it reminded me that as I’ve grown, so have the values that guide me. At my core, I lead with integrity. My family is everything to me. I believe meaningful relationships are one of life’s greatest gifts, and communication is the foundation that strengthens those relationships. I want to live generously—not only with my resources, but with my time, encouragement, and willingness to serve others. Those values aren’t just words; they’re the compass that guides how I live, lead, and show up for the people around me.
One of the most powerful parts of the weekend was walking through Jae’s story. We visited the Catholic Church, his childhood home, his gravesite, the Double J Ranch, and Twin Eagle Ranch. Standing in those places brought his story—and the Bing family’s story—to life in a way I had never experienced before. It gave me an even deeper appreciation for the mission I’m honored to be part of.
I’ve never experienced a weekend where complete strangers became so authentic, vulnerable, and connected in such a short amount of time.
As I drove away from the Double J Ranch today, heading home to a family I’ve deeply missed and can’t wait to hug, I felt more conviction, purpose, and clarity than I did when I arrived. But I also felt something unexpected: conflict. Leaving the ranch was bittersweet. I was driving away from an experience that changed me and toward the reality that the real work begins now. It’s one thing to be inspired—it’s another to put those lessons into practice every single day.
The good news is that I know I won’t be doing it alone. I’m surrounded by people who believe in me, who care about me, and who will continue to encourage and challenge me along the way.
I am deeply honored to serve as an ambassador for the Jae Foundation. It is a privilege to help share Jae’s story and the Bing family’s legacy, and I leave this weekend more committed than ever to carrying that mission forward with purpose, integrity, generosity, and heart.
