Current Employer/Title:  Currently seeking a full-time opportunity

Career: 

I’ve been a communications, public relations and branding professional for the entirety of my 25+ year career. I’ve spent about half of that time with nonprofits and municipalities and the other half working for global financial services organizations. I consider myself a generalist at this point since I’ve moved to different sectors and taken on different challenges when offered the chance to do so. I’ve had the opportunity to recruit, build, and lead teams from 2 to 20 persons. I am passionate about creating and taking advantage of the chance to learn and help people achieve their professional goals. I think I’ve demonstrated a good blend of strategic thinking with a “roll up your sleeves” approach to execution.

Education:

I have a bachelor’s degree in Communications from The University of Texas and an MBA from Georgetown University’s McDonough School of Business. I am currently enrolled in a Professional Certificate course in Digital Marketing with the University of Vermont.

What You Should Know:

I’m not sure this qualifies as a “claim to fame”, but I had the opportunity to lead the crisis communications and rebranding of the global commercial insurance companies at American International Group, Inc (AIG), following the financial crisis of 2008-2009. As the project took months of preparation, creative energy, and significant change management, I learned a great deal about people, processes, and organization. I typically describe it as “an unmatched professional opportunity that I NEVER want to have again!” It did provide me with great perspective and a foundation for staying calm during turbulent times.

AWC Focus: 

  • I’ve heard of the organization throughout the years, but it was an e-blast from Crain’s that inspired me to join the local chapter. I’ve been in Detroit for 5 years and working remotely as the only member of my team in the area. I’m looking forward to meeting like-minded people and taking advantage of the interesting educational content AWC provides. Now that I’m looking for a new role, I want to be more connected to the local Communications Professionals network. AWC seems like as good a place as any to start!

Personal:

  • Family and hometown – 
    • I was born in Detroit, graduated high school in Livonia, and then moved away for 30 years living in Austin and Houston, Washington DC and NYC for 15 years before moving back to Detroit in 2016. I was motivated by all the great things happening downtown and bought a co-op in Lafayette Park.
  • Interests: 
    • I love to travel and set (and so far, achieved) a goal about 20 years ago to gain one new Passport stamp every year while I’m still healthy enough to get around. I like to bike (I have a Peloton), hike, and I do yoga regularly. I’m an avid reader and I probably watch too much TV. Since COVID, I’ve started to cook more and love learning how to follow simple healthy recipes.
  • Causes/volunteer service: 
    • I’m an outspoken cheerleader for Detroit and take pride in showing off our uniqueness to visitors. I am passionate about women’s empowerment—especially encouraging and supporting them in running for public office. The gender gap is outrageous when you look at city councils, statehouses, and school board representation. I spent the past 10 years of my career in Communications and Branding for a national veteran services organization, so the military, veterans and military families will always have a special place in my heart. I currently serve as the Community Service Chair on the board for Georgetown University’s local Alumni Association—the Detroit Hoyas.