Makenzie attended Franciscan University of Steubenville and received a bachelor in social work. She then went to the University of Pittsburgh and got a Masters in Social Work and a Masters in Public Health, and in addition received certificates in human services management and global health. Makenzie began her career in the nonprofit arena working with adults with intellectual and physical disabilities as a Quality Compliance and Privacy Coordinator for CLASS. Makenzie then took on the role of Program Director at Community Human Services in a mental health residential facility, prioritizing a housing firm harm reduction model. Makenzie is the founder and executive director of Public Health Partners where she continues to work with local groups, as well as national organizations such as Dream.Org and Cancer Free Economy Network, to work towards a just transition to a greener economy that centers community solutions. 

She has witnessed, firsthand, the impact of corporate greed and exploitation on working class communities. Makenzie’s experience working with individuals, families, and communities directly informs her policy work, where she brings bold ideas to address everyday problems through practical and community driven policy change. Makenzie’s priorities include ensuring everyone regardless of their background has a fair shot at success and earning a fair and just wage. She believes where you live should not determine if you live, and that we need to take immediate action on climate chat that prioritizes putting communities and community solutions, especially those most impacted by pollution, at the forefront. As a healthcare worker and someone who worked in a long-term care facility during the COVID-19 pandemic, Makenzie understands first hand the shortcomings and gaps in our mental and physical health systems and believes she will bring a fresh perspective for advocating for these issues. Advocating for better physical and mental health systems includes the need for disability justice, far too often Makenzie has seen patients, colleagues, and loved ones have to fight for serves and accessibility that too often still fall short of their needs. Makenzie understands for our communities to be healthy and flourish we also need immediate and serious criminal justice reform–systematic racism has led to an institution which targets and unfairly imprisons people of color and puts a penalty on poverty. Makenzie sees all these issues as interconnected and will advocate for a strong workforce, safe communities, and healthy families. 

Makenzie is a passionate and dedicated licensed social worker, public health professional, community organizer, and small business owner who has spent her career in the non-profit arena. Makenzie is running to represent District 45 in the Pennsylvania State Senate because she believes her neighbors deserve to live, work, and play in safe, health, and prosperous communities.