Cindy’s story begins in Honolulu, where she was born while her father served in the U.S. Navy. She was raised in Nebraska and Indiana, where her family lived on a farm while her dad taught history at Purdue University. Both her parents had farm roots and believed in instilling a strong work ethic in their children. Cindy grew up feeding animals before and after school, baling hay in the summer, and showing her quarter horse in 4-H. She was an honor roll student and held a leadership role in student government.

At Purdue, Cindy earned a degree in Education and pursued postgraduate studies in adolescent psychology. She taught elementary and middle school science and social studies, bringing creativity and care into the classroom. She also coached girls’ volleyball and basketball, always encouraging students to give their best.

Her path led her to Washington, DC, after helping her father win a seat in the U.S. House of Representatives. There, she worked for nonprofits including the National Council of Senior Citizens and the American Red Cross. On 9/11, she was at the Red Cross Disaster Operations Center and led support efforts for the families of 647 union members affected at Ground Zero, the Pentagon, and aboard United Flight 93.

In 2015, Cindy arrived in Occoquan for what was meant to be a temporary stay—but she quickly fell in love with the small-town charm and tight-knit community. She ran for Town Council in 2016 and is now serving her fourth term.

Today, Cindy remains deeply connected to her two sons, two grandchildren, extended family, and her beloved 94-year-old mother, who lives nearby in assisted living.

If you spot a car with the license plate “I ♥ OCQ,” give a wave—it’s probably Cindy, and she’d love to meet you.