About Me
Wordsmithing is the root of my career which has branched into many areas of communications. The judgment and professionalism I’ve gained from that broad experience provide you with exceptional support.
After studying journalism at Northwestern University, I worked at a weekly newspaper. But my next position, focusing on media relations and publications at Marquette University, convinced me to shift to communications with its wealth of creative opportunities.
In the hive of public affairs activity in Washington, D.C., jobs in a large communications agency, Ketchum, and a smaller one, Burness, deepened my skills. Spanning 11 years, these roles layered strategic planning, creative brainstorming, and data-driven persuasion on top of my editorial and media relations base. While at Burness, a team I worked on won a Silver Anvil Award from the Public Relations Society of America for a report on the status of end-of-life care in the U.S.
I went on to become a communications director at nonprofits such as the Pulmonary Hypertension Association and the Religious Coalition for Reproductive Choice, advising senior leaders, developing new programs, driving initiatives in digital and print media, generating media coverage, and improving staff writing skills. I’ve also been a freelance consultant for many years. In these and other professional roles, I’ve accumulated a rich reservoir of knowledge I draw on for every project.
Learning continuously is important to me. For instance, in 2023 I participated in a 10-month Mastermind Accelerator program through the Extreme Leadership Institute founded by Steve Farber. I’ve completed the Capital Speakers Club’s intensive public speaking course. I’m also a member of Progressive Communicators of DC, a forum for give-and-take with others in my field.
Preferred vacation spot: A quiet beach (summer or winter)
Movie I never tire of: “The King’s Speech”
Favorite singer: Paul Simon
Pandemic survival strategy: Playing Wordle and Spelling Bee from the New York Times games
My Values
Integrity
I listen to your needs, ask questions, offer ideas, deliver on my promises, and keep you up to date on progress.
Collaboration
I welcome others’ input. I believe no one person has a corner on the best ideas.
Pragmatism
I experiment with new approaches. If they aren’t working, I scrap them and look for better solutions.
Ingenuity
Communications is speculative work where analytical thinking, instincts, and judgment become most important. I consider these my strongest assets as a consultant.
