Passionate about education, college access and professional development, I have a longstanding background in college access and admissions. As the former Director of Graduate Admissions and Financial Aid at Northwestern University’s Medill School of Journalism, I had the opportunity to read and make final admissions decisions for four graduate programs. The experience of working for a highly competitive journalism program provided me with a unique perspective on the power of the written word.

Additionally, having served as the Director of College Counseling at Cristo Rey St. Martin College Prep (CRSM) and a School Director for the Schuler Scholar Program at Waukegan High School, CRSM and Zion-Benton Township High School, I have collaborated with college access professionals, helping high school students gain access to some of the country’s most selective colleges. The students are primarily first-generation and from populations underrepresented on college campuses. It has been incredibly meaningful to see these scholars be accepted to and subsequently graduate from the colleges of their dreams.

For over 20 years, as part of my professional background, I have worked as a college and professional counselor with students and families of varied backgrounds, helping them to make their aspirations a reality. While many of the students with whom I have worked have been located in the Chicago area, I have also assisted students from Hawaii to New York. Technology provides tremendous opportunity to create the personal connections that are an integral part of the counseling process.

My professional experiences have provided me with the opportunity to review résumés and interview countless individuals for graduate school and employment. As I reflect on my many years of counseling, it brings me joy to see high school students with whom I worked, reconnect with me for professional assistance once in college. I have helped these students consider and successfully apply for internships and job opportunities.

My educational background includes a B.S. in Journalism with a minor in Political Science from the University of Wisconsin. I also earned a M.S. from Northwestern University’s Medill School of Journalism and a M.Ed. from DePaul University’s School of Education.

As a long-time resident of Lake County, my three children have attended Deerfield Public Schools. Two have graduated from college and one is in graduate school. From both the student’s and parent’s perspectives, I understand the stress that can be associated with the college and job application processes. My approach to counseling is thus holistic and supportive, knowing that each individual’s journey must mirror his or her strengths and needs.