ABOUT ME

Hi, I'm Krista

WHERE I COME FROM

Born in Sterling, raised across Illinois, and proud graduate of Hoopeston, I’ve lived the values that define our heartland. My journey took me across the border to Covington, Indiana for a few years—but Illinois has always been home. In 2007, my family settled in McLean County, where we built lasting friendships and community roots that remain strong to this day.

Since relocating to Peoria in 2020 with our six children, we've truly fallen in love with the vibrancy, resilience, and warmth of this city. Peoria has embraced our family, and we feel incredibly fortunate to raise our children in such a welcoming and forward-moving community.

Now, as Peoria grows and Central Illinois continues to unite, we’re committed to being an active part of that future—championing strong families, responsible leadership, and the values that shaped us.

MY EXPERIENCE

I began my career in public service while earning my associate’s degree in Criminal Justice at Danville Area Community College, starting as a Correctional Officer in Indiana in 2000 and becoming a 911 Director by 2004. In 2007, my family and I moved to Central Illinois, where I joined McLean County 911 as a dispatcher. After taking six years to grow and nurture our family, I returned to dispatch in 2016 at Metcom, later joining Advanced Medical Transport in Peoria in 2021 — first as an Ambulance Dispatcher, and now serving as a Billing Specialist.

In 2020, my husband and I founded River City CrossFit in Peoria. Though we’ve since passed it on, we’re proud that it continues to thrive in the heart of downtown.

Beyond my professional experience, I’ve also been a foster mom, adoptive mom, and a mother to children with special needs — roles that have profoundly shaped my understanding of our community’s needs and fueled my passion for creating meaningful change.

Through both personal and professional lenses, I’ve witnessed how policy decisions affect everyday lives. I bring a collaborative spirit, a practical approach to problem-solving, and a commitment to ensuring every voice is heard. Together, we can create a stronger future for our families and neighbors

MISSION STATEMENT

Equality Meets Opportunity

Enhancing the quality of life across Illinois starts with recognizing the vital role of public safety, strong economic growth, and responsible fiscal management. These interconnected pillars contribute to healthier, more resilient communities where every individual feels secure and valued.

With over a decade of experience as a 911 Dispatcher, I’ve been on the front lines of crisis response — helping families through emergencies, coordinating life-saving services, and witnessing firsthand the power of calm, decisive action. That experience has shaped my unwavering belief that every community deserves access to responsive, reliable emergency services.

As residents of this great state, your voice is essential in shaping Illinois’s future. Get involved, participate in local initiatives, and communicate with your elected leaders about the issues that matter most to you. Stay informed and vote with intention. Your engagement is the heartbeat of progress.

Together, we can build a flourishing Illinois — one where opportunity is widespread, safety is a shared priority, and every community has the tools to thrive. Quality of life isn’t just an idea; it’s a collective promise we make and fulfill through action.