Payson started A Sense of Place in 2023. She was first moved to act while working with those transitioning from homelessness at Catholic Charities of Southern Nevada. Her goal has always been to provide nurturing, organized, and well-designed living spaces for individuals and families transitioning from being unhoused, and those who have been displaced, in order to reduce stress, heal, inspire, and create stability.

Currently, Payson is pursuing a degree in Civil Engineering at the University of Notre Dame, with a particular interest on how the design of our built environment directly impacts human well-being and community dignity. As she has started this next chapter in the Midwest, Payson is actively expanding the mission of A Sense of Place to serve the greater South Bend and Notre Dame communities. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with family and friends, hiking, and traveling.