With 30+ years of research, economic analysis, and writing experience I know the foundations of the field but each year, I strive to learn more about the field and extend my knowledge base. I love the challenges of the work and getting to know my clients. I was awarded my MPIA/ESD from the University of Pittsburgh Graduate School of Public and International affairs from the single best university in the world - The University of Pittsburgh and hold a bachelor of arts in anthropology, political science, and Latin American studies from the same esteemed university. #H2P.
My superpower is that I can figure out any complex problem to get the client what they need which means that our clients can rest easy regardless of the challenge of the task put before me or hurdles put in my way. I work tirelessly to reach our collective goals.
Outside of work, you can find me spending time with my husband, our kiddo, two cats, and dog or planing a gardening project that my husband ends up implementing.
EDUCATION
University of Pittsburgh, Graduate School of Public and International Affairs
MPIA: Master of Public and International Affairs/Economic
and Social Development
Concentration: Economic and Social Development
Specialty Areas: Project Program Design and Implementation
and Political Economy of Development
University of Pittsburgh, BA: College of Arts and Sciences
Dual Major: Political Science and Anthropology
Minors: Latin American Studies and Spanish
A certified ‘yapper’, I understand the power of words and know how to translate that into effective marketing and communications campaigns that work to tell your story and propel you ahead of the rest.
In my previous role, I worked closely with clients to first assess and then develop a strong marketing and communications plans to meet their needs. I am a skilled copywriter and editor who understands the role that dynamic social media content, informative press releases, robust op-eds, and strong relationships with the media play in achieving client goals.
Understanding the importance of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI), I received my DEI certification from Cornell University in July 2022. Through rigorous coursework, I learned techniques to advance equity, break down barriers in the BIPOC community, and foster a more inclusive environment. I now use my certification to guide client initiatives to create more equitable and inclusive solutions.
I like to stay busy and active in my community, so I serve on the advisory board of the Emerging Erie Fund, the board of the Northwestern PA Chapter of the Public Relations Society of America (PRSA), a member of the Erie County Democratic Committee, and secretary of my church’s parish council.
In my spare time, you can catch me watching an unhealthy amount of reality TV (Love Island or Vanderpump Rules anyone?), spending time at animal shelters, and roaming the city for the best vegetarian food – if you ever find yourself in Erie, PA stop by El Amigo for the best veggie quesadilla.
EDUCATION
Gannon University
Bachelors of Science in Marketing
Minor Advertising Communication
CERTIFICATIONS
- Hootsuite
- Google Analytics
- Diversity and Inclusion from eCornell
- University | New York
I obtained my bachelor’s of science degree from Grand Valley State University. From there, I went on to earn my master’s degree in history from Eastern Michigan University and a master’s degree in education from the University of California, Riverside. All that to say, I spent many years in the classroom–from kindergarten to collegiate–as well as numerous roles in political campaigns and community organizing.
I view consulting and the way I work with people much like I view walking on sidewalks; someone can walk on a sidewalk, getting to and from their destination, and experience the sidewalk as merely a tool of travel. I view sidewalks and collaborative work in a different way. A sidewalk is a public good for use by everyone. If you travel on the sidewalk with awareness of others and learn more about your surroundings along the way, the journey can not only get you where you need to go but make you a better traveler for next time. That’s how I view working with clients: if we work together and consider the journey as well as the destination, not only will the journey be more pleasant but you never know what improvements to the final destination we can find along the way.
When I’m not helping to solve problems for clients, I enjoy being active, checking out the latest restaurant or brewery in Philadelphia, or playing dungeons and dragons with my friends!
EDUCATION
University of California, Riverside
Master of Arts in Education
Eastern Michigan University
Master of Arts in History
Grand Valley State University
Bachelor of Science in History
and Political Science
PUBLICATIONS
“Between a Cuck and a Hard Place: Masculinity and Online Uses of the Word ‘Cuck,’” (2018), The Activist History Review, November 2018 Issue. Retrieved from: https://activisthistory.com/2018/11/19/between-a-cuck-and-a-hard-place-masculinityand-online-uses-of-the-word-cuck/.