I often like to joke I was meant to be an actor because I entered the world in high dramatic fashion my doctors' had to work on me for 45 minutes before I started breathing on my own. I was diagnosed with cerebral palsy (which mildly affects my speech and gait) around age two. I grew up determined not to let others' limiting views and the adversity I faced stop me from pursuing my dreams and goals.

I have been a working actor -with roles in film, television & theater. including CBS's S.W.A.T.- for over 35 years and realized my dream of being cast in roles wear my disability is incidental to the character or storyline.

I have realized my dream and I have worked in film, theater and television. I am a member of SAG-AFTRA and Actors Equity Association and I was the first actor with a disability to obtain a Masters of Fine Arts in Acting from California State University Long Beach (2001). I was the recipient of the 2016 Best Actor Honor for The 48 Disability Film Challenge and I am one of the

Ten Fun Trivia DEJ Facts

1) Favorite Drink- Chai Tea Late 

2) My Father, Grandfather, and Great Grandfather  are/were all ministers

3) Best Moment In A 7-11- Meeting James Earl Jones

4) Favorite Humbling Moment- Receiving The Tradition Of Excellence Award from my former high school Oak Park River Forest High School. Other distinguished alumni include Earnest Hemingway, Ray Koch ( McDonald's Founder), Thomas Lennon ( Reno 911)

5) Favorite Feeling Of Accomplishment-Getting A Masters Of Fine Arts in Acting From California State University Long Beach (2001)

6) I am an artivist (art+activism) and am passionate about exploring ways my art can be used as a tool for social justice issues.

7 My cousins include Grammy nominated guitarist Stanley Jordan ( fathers were brothers) and former actor & Michigan senatorial candidate, Hill Harper (grandparents were siblings )

8) My first commercial was for Easterseals when I was 11.

9) Favorite Unwind Walking On The Beach & Dancing.

10) Favorite Role Of All Time- Aunt Di to Nephews James & Jordan

It All Began Dreaming Big On A Swing