Personal Profile Statement

I am a visionary public servant and community leader with a distinguished career focused on strategic planning, quality-assurance, corporate and community development whose mission is to assist organizations, communities and stakeholders attain higher values of economic well-being, improved integrated systems, and holistic community development.

I have spent my career working across governmental, corporate, nonprofit, and educational environments alongside agency leaders, community stakeholders, and executive teams to solve complex challenges and develop sustainable solutions. My experience navigating public policy, organizational systems and finance has equipped me with a strong foundation in accountability, customer service, and responsible stewardship of public resources.  This work has centered on responsible stewardship of public resources and collaborative leadership, ensuring that public investments produce meaningful results for the communities they serve.

Throughout my years of service with the City of Houston's Housing and Community Development Department, and the Houston Housing Authority (now the Housing Alliance HTX) my vision has been to be a voice for the people, to advocate for the needs, rights and well-being of the communities, especially stakeholders who are participants and beneficiaries. 

My key role has been in advancing fiduciary public policy for affordable housing initiatives, fostering partnerships with nonprofit organizations, and supporting community-based development efforts designed to create stable and thriving neighborhoods.  Prior to that, while serving at the Houston Housing Authority (now the Housing Alliance HTX) I was instrumental in creating the Customer Service Division.  It proved to be essential in public housing as it directly impacted residents’ living condition, safeguarded their well-being, and fostered trust in government services.

Also noteworthy, are the valuable international corporate experiences attained serving in the role as Corporate Development Deputy Manager with Zurich Insurance Japan. In this capacity, I gained exposure to global financial systems, risk management frameworks, and large-scale organizational strategies.  This international perspective strengthened my ability to evaluate complex financial structures, understand long-term sustainability models, and apply disciplined oversight—skills that directly translate to fiduciary responsibility in pension governance.

I am a resolute advocate for public service, who believes that those entrusted with managing public resources must lead with integrity, sound judgment, and an unwavering commitment to those they serve. These values have guided my professional career and inspire my commitment to serving Houston's Municipal retirees and employees.

My husband, Dr. Iwao Takahashi and I share a deeply rooted partnership grounded in purpose, and loving mutual support. Outside of my professional commitments, I value intentional time with him; moments that allow me to recharge, reflect, and remain centered. Together, we have built a life anchored in inspirational creativity, and a shared belief in creating opportunities that strengthen future generations.  Whether enjoying quiet time together or engaging in shared experiences that bring balance and joy, these moments are essential to how I sustain the energy and clarity needed for public service. 

BIO

As a candidate for Trustee of the Houston Municipal Employees Pension System, I am totally committed to protecting the retirement security of municipal employees, promoting transparency and accountability, and ensuring the long-term strength and sustainability of the pension system for current and future retirees. I am especially passionate about serving as an advocate for HMEPS Retirees!  It will be my honor to work with the Board of Trustees to institute customer-centric workflows that improve complex systems, access critical information, and facilitate improved communication channels to better understand the benefits and resources available to them. I believe every retiree deserves a trusted voice—someone who will listen, communicate clearly, and champion their interests with integrity and compassion.