My Why
What powers my practice
I originally set out to be a writer, but in law school, I discovered that my mind naturally aligned with the law—solving puzzles, thinking critically, and seeing the bigger picture. I find fulfillment in helping clients navigate urgent challenges with both legal insight and a personal touch. Whether working with clients, colleagues, or in my community, I lead with wisdom and compassion. Above all, I want people to know that I care deeply, follow through, and am committed to delivering thoughtful, above-and-beyond service.
Credentials
- Northern Seminary, Master of Arts (M.A.), New Testament, 2020
- DePaul University College of Law, Juris Doctor (J.D.), 2000,
- cum laude, 2000
- Managing Editor of Lead Articles, DePaul Law Review
- University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Bachelor of Arts (B.A.), English Literature, 1996
- Illinois
- United States Court of Appeals, Sixth Circuit
- United States Court of Appeals, Seventh Circuit
- United States Court of Appeals, Ninth Circuit
- United States District Court, District of Colorado
- United States District Court, Northern District of Illinois
- United States District Court, Eastern District of Michigan
Engagement
- Member, American Bar Association
- Member, Illinois State Bar Association
- Member, Christian Legal Society
- Mentor, Legal Vocational Fellowship
- Mentor, Legal Vocation Fellowship, 2023 – Present
- Member, Safe Families for Children, 2019 – Present
- Board Member, Jubilee Centre USA, 2016 – Present
- Co-Founder and Volunteer, Willow Creek Legal Aid Ministry, 2009-2015
- Former Board Member, Gospel Justice Initiative
- Former Board Member, Housing Opportunities for Women
- Former Board Member, Shama Ministries
Insights

IRS Position in Johnson Amendment Case Leaves More Questions Than Answers
Case: National Religious Broadcasters, et al. v. Billy Long (i.e., the IRS Commissioner) Court: U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Texas The “Johnson…Read
Jul 16, 2025

Webinar Recap: Top Insurance Issues for Faith-Based Clients
On Wednesday, May 7, James Forrest and Kellye Story joined Gallagher team members James Dick and Jon Barron for a complimentary live webinar, Top Legal Issues for Faith-Based Organizations. They provided faith-based organizations with current trends and helpful tips related to the insurance industry.Read
Jun 10, 2025

Caring well for “hoary heads” on your church staff – Medicare supplemental plan considerations for religious organizations
Many churches strive to honor long-serving ministers and care for them well, even as some go to part-time status. Often, we see church clients who want to provide (and pay some or all of the cost of) Medicare supplemental plans for their Medicare-eligible employees.Read
Feb 24, 2025

