When not working on Board of Director efforts, my profession is an Interior and Building Designer. I own the Ashland Design Studio, located in the Historic Railroad District, and have a design services studio there - JulieO Design. I have been in the architectural design business my whole life; from crawling around my father's architectural studio to traveling around the world working on buildings large and small to now having created my own niche in the local building community. I took a few years off this path to own and run Tease Restaurant here in Ashland. It was a wonderful journey that allowed me to meet and support so many great artistic and culinary talents here in the Rogue Valley. 

I moved to Ashland 15 years ago from the Bay Area. We came here because we wanted a great place to raise my two daughters. Both of my girls went all the way through grade school at the Siskiyou School and that experience was the foundation for my understanding of how amazing this community is. My eldest daughter, Victoria, is now living and working in NYC. My youngest daughter, Olivia, will be graduating from AHS next spring after spending an exchange year in Belgium and will be going to college in some far flung location I am sure. Both girls have grown to see Ashland as their home and I couldn't be prouder.

In addition to my work for the AFC Board of Directors, I am a 10 year member of the Ashland Elks; enthusiastic member of the Chamber of Commerce; founding member of the Splinter Group; volunteer for AIFF; advocate and cheerleader for our local wineries; enjoy my book club and knitting circle; devoted to Yoga and an unabashed shoeaholic.

What inspired you to run for the Ashland Food Co-op Board of Directors?
Originally, I joined the Board at the invitation and recruitment of other Board Directors. I saw this Board as a opportunity for me to use my talents and knowledge for the benefit of one of Ashland's finest institutions. I decided to run again because in the course of those first three years, I learned so much about the great things the Ashland Food Coop does and how much more we have to offer. I was inspired by achievements both locally and nationally of our very successful Co-op and so many other co-ops across this country. Being part of the Board of Directors is a unique opportunity to see how our local efforts can positively influence community here and afar.

What do you hope to accomplish in your 3-year term?
During these next three years I am focused on developing and reinforcing the Board of Director's presence with all our Owners. As a cooperative, our Board represents the interests of our owners but also needs to focus on the future needs and challenges. I truly hope to help create a more involved and participatory ownership that understands all that the Ashland Food Co-op can offer to them and our community.

What is the one product from the Co-op you can't live without and why?
Just in case someone wants to surprise me on my birthday, I always love a little Honey Mama's Lavender Red Rose Cacao-Nectar Bar!