A lover of words with strong communication skills, I am passionate about promoting programs and products with a clear vision of both strategic and creative priorities. I am also an expert editor with an eye for detail.
RELATED WORK HISTORY
January 1990–current
Freelance Writer, Self-Employed
- Commissioned by local advertising agencies and businesses to write articles, brochures, print ads and direct mail packages.
- Published in local media, including Keep Growing magazine for Chicago Botanic Garden and The Chicago Tribune.
- Experienced and fastidious proofreader and editor.
- Strong research and interviewing skills.
January 2009–January 2012
Executive Director | Volunteer Pool of Highland Park | Highland Park, IL
- Revised and rewrote company brochure, heading up project and working with freelance designer.
- Launched a successful direct marketing campaign, resulting in a substantial increase in inquiries.
- Consulted with prospective volunteers to determine where their skills and desires would best be met.
January 1989–January 1990
Copywriter | Creative Marketing, Inc. | Northbrook, IL
- Worked primarily on Marriott and Hilton hotel accounts and various in-house outlets, including restaurants, lounges, and gift shops.
- Conceived and developed print ads, campaigns, brochures, and promotional items.
January 1988–January 1989
Copywriter | Cahners Exposition Group–Reed Exhibition Company | Des Plaines, IL
- Wrote print ads, brochures, and direct mail pieces promoting trade shows in the security, pharmaceutical, and manufacturing industries.
- Developed campaign themes, collaborating with designers, and participating in strategic planning sessions.
January 1987–January 1988
Copywriter | Spiegel, Inc. | Oak Brook, IL
- Participated in Spiegel’s direct marketing program.
- Conceived and wrote letters for a variety of products.
- Worked on several specialty catalogs.
January 1984–January 1985
Copywriter | Ketchum-Mandabach & Simms | Chicago, IL
- Worked on a wide range of advertising programs.
- Conceived and developed print campaigns, retail ads, and sales promotion programs.
- Wrote for a variety of foodservice, financial, and health care accounts, including Chock Full O’ Nuts; Bloomfield, a division of Beatrice; Procter and Gamble; Simplot; Citicorp, Diners Club, and the Lane Banks.
EDUCATION
Bachelor of Arts: Rhetoric
University of Illinois Urbana
Master of Science: Advertising
Northwestern University Medill School of Journalism