Background
Summary
I remember the first poem I wrote in elementary school—a warm wind blowing over a pond, and a swan floating placidly by. I do not remember the first writing that I loved, because words and stories had always been part of me. My consciousness dawned against the poetry of hymns, the whimsy of naughty rabbits, the adventures of orphan children with golden hearts.
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I have been teaching writing, rhetoric, and creative expression since 2003. With multiple degrees in English and Education, I am steeped in language and literature—how to generate it, how to talk about it, how to make meaning of it in your life.
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My work outside of education has ranged from small businesses to media companies to nonprofits. I've written grants and scripts, website copy and newsletters. I find it delightful to see how language shifts changes to suit its moment. It is a great joy to me that I have been able to spend my life in the company of words.
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I am based in Pittsburgh, PA, where I live with my husband, my books, and my gardens.
Skills and Strengths
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Wordcraft: finding precisely the right words for each occasion
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Editing: restructuring, reconceiving, rewording, clarifying, streamlining
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Research: supporting writing with thorough and accurate information
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Coaching: foregrounding your vision; capitalizing on your existing skills and adding some new ones to your toolbox.
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Imagination and Creativity: taking a playful approach to language and communication to see new solutions to old problems or add life to a languid passage.
Education
Education
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Drew University: M. Phil. and Ph.D., English Language and Literature
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Dissertation awarded distinction
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Eastern Mennonite University: Bachelor of Arts, English Language and Literature, English Secondary Education Licensure; Minor in Theatre
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Summa Cum Laude
Honors Program
Dean’s List
Cords of Distinction
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