I have been a professional communicator since 2000, but a word nerd for much longer. At 13, I won the highly esteemed international English prize—OK, it was a Grade 8 award, but at the time, it felt like a much bigger deal. In high school, I poured myself into writing essays that both overshadowed my meager math scores and ravaged my parents’ bubble jet printer (remember those?). I loved using storytelling to bring to life big ideas and complex topics.

My meandering path in higher education has included completing an honours double major degree in communications and sociology at York University, post-graduate journalism studies at Humber College and social media marketing courses at Ryerson University. My first job in the field was in The Toronto Sun’s advertising department, where I wrote for and edited a variety of special editorial sections. One of these sections was on trends, issues and opportunities in higher education. This role ignited my ongoing interest in writing about and for this dynamic, progressive sector.

Inspired by the self-employment paths of my parents, I started my own communications business in 2004. Since then, I’ve built up my specialty in an area I love: using the power of storytelling to help higher education institutions grow and excel. To keep my communications expertise sharp and help advance the profession, I serve on the program advisory committee for Humber College’s Professional Writing and Communications program and Creative and Professional Writing program. I previously volunteered on the board of IABC/Toronto and led its Professional Independent Communicators group. For the full story on my journey in professional communications, check out my LinkedIn profile.