A person-centered approach with a foundation of intentional grace.

I am committed to authenticity, amplifying voices, and fostering genuine connections. My work supports individuals with the knowledge and skills to become the best version of themselves while navigating coercive systems. I equip people to act with greater intention and guide organizations in creating inclusive, uplifting environments. I help others understand the impact of working alongside those facing injustice to diminish harm.

I believe in the power of personal narratives to promote authenticity, dispel myths, and reject shame. For more than twenty years, I’ve worked in the non-profit sector, advocating with youth, families, and people who’ve experienced violence and for reproductive justice. My focus remains on empowerment and transformation, ensuring our communities thrive.

I embody the spirit of Sojourner Truth, carry forward the legacy of the griot, and work relentlessly toward justice and equity. My goal is to build a legacy deeply rooted in my communities that honors my ancestors and makes my son, Gabriel, and bonus kid, Kayla, proud.

B. S. Child Youth & Family Studies University of Nebraska Omaha

M.A. Teaching College of Saint Mary

[Special Education & Social Studies]

M.Divinity United Theological Seminary Twin Cities

[Concentration Social Transformation] 

Artivist

Creating art that uplifts and challenges.

Reese

Health Disparities 1st Place 2019

One line with one picture retelling my experience

Oversexualization of Black

Girls & Women

Souls A Fire Fellow 2021

Narrative weaving research, people’s personal experiences, and a call to action.

The Smiths

Data by Design Entry 2023

Scrapbook with my siblings’ and biological mother’s pictures alongside past and current foster care data.

Words we heal in community above a group of diverse people

Community

Rise Art Show Virtual Artist 2024

Keynote Topics

Kinship Foster Care & Adoption

My Reproductive Injustice Journey

Adultification to Oversexualization

Life at the intersection of Black and female

Thriving Despite

Grit Resiliency and Imposter Syndrome

Sam embodies what it means to be an intersectional leader and teacher in our community.

— Andi C.G.

Enjoyable, enthusiastic, and thought-provoking in roughly equal amounts

— Alex Martinez

Samantha is intelligent and driven in her quest for justice and the empowerment of others.

— Chris W.