People tend to think writing is about putting words together and making it sound intelligent or poetic. But if you think about it, writing is really strategy on paper. You have to know who your message is intended for, what you want to say, and how to say it to make the greatest impact on your audience. That requires the ability to think, plan, and execute. And that’s much more difficult.

In my 25 years of working in marketing and public relations, my greatest challenges have been taking difficult subjects and making them look simple and relevant. Like marketing supervisory control and data acquisition systems to water and wastewater treatment facilities. Or getting attention in what was than a competitive and overcrowded automotive market. Although it was difficult, it was very rewarding. And more importantly, my clients were happy!

I’ve always had a special place in my heart for entrepreneurs and non-profits. So when I started my own agency, I worked with both — as clients and by serving on boards and committees.

Now, as an adjunct professor for the University of Illinois College of Media, I’m sharing what I learned and learning quite a bit myself by teaching courses in persuasive writing, advertising, and public relations. And often I‘m able to connect my students with non-profit organizations so they both benefit.

I still enjoy working with clients and continue to do so as a consultant, writer, and trainer.

And when I’m not “working,” I’m serving on the library board, leading my younger daughter’s Girl Scout Troop, taking cardiokickboxing at the YMCA while my girls take tumbling and trampoline classes, or just spending time with my husband and the kids. Life is good.