Patricia is a mother, wife, author, educator and social worker who has a passion for expanding children's exposure to literature that features Black and brown characters and gives power to Black and brown stories because “representation matters” immensely. As an Assistant Director with UConn Husky Sport, Patricia collaborates to provide literature and develop curriculum that is both representative of and relevant to the Black and brown students she serves in Hartford Public Schools. Patricia's first book, "Down South for the Summer" tells her own family story, but also the quintessential experience of a Black family from the Northeast traveling by car to spend a 1990s summer with their grandparents in the South. She hopes that with this story, others will be able to relate and appreciate their own valued family experiences. Patricia has a B.S. in Business Administration and a Masters of Social Work, both from the University of Connecticut. She is also the creator and owner of Aspenne's Library, LLC, a book publishing agency with a mission to curate children’s books and literature that highlights, promotes & provides Black and brown stories.