I am a dynamic writer who believes in plain language and fair access to knowledge. I specialize in using communication theory to produce high quality and compelling content for stakeholders. I value representation and prioritize diversity, equity, and inclusion in my work.
EXPERIENCE
Aldevron, a Danaher company, Madison, WI
Technical Writer (50% remote; May 2021 – Present)
Write and edit documents and newsletter for the Protein Business Unit (PBU); facilitate meetings to edit documentation; create templates for frequently produced documentation; development of style book; founded the Lifelong Learners, a meetup where associates bond over a shared love of learning; “exceeding expectations” in Jan. 2022 associate evaluation.
University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI
Science Writer (50% remote; Sep 2019 – Apr 2021)
Wrote and edited content and organized an editorial calendar for content rollouts for website, newsletters, and social media; developed strong brand and ensured messaging was consistent across all publication platforms; wrote public statements for senior leadership.
Lecturer (Sep 2018 – Aug 2019)
Provided 6 hours each week of instruction and thought leadership in fast-paced university-level communications classes; facilitated engaging class discussions on required reading; provided feedback and mentorship on writing assignments and speeches; managed frequent correspondences and 1:1 meetings with 30 students per semester.
Research Assistant (May 2018 – Jan 2021)
Used strategic communications skills to compile and conduct both qualitative and quantitative interviews and surveys; implemented coding methodology to organize data; collaborated with research team to write and edit final manuscript (published January 2021).
State of Wisconsin, Madison, WI
Disability Determination Specialist (Sep 2015 – Aug 2017)
Quickly scanned medical records of Social Security applicants, looking for key exam data; cross-checked data with criteria that would determine applicants’ receipt of Social Security; wrote reports that explain determination decision.
Self-employed, Madison, WI
Freelance Science Writer (Jul 2008 – Present)
Practiced at building genuine trust with clients and scientific subject matter experts quickly; experienced with brainstorming innovative ways to represent research; piece on neurology lab led to highest ever influx of volunteers for lab’s work; clients include: the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources; the Isthmus, Madison’s alt-weekly; & Writer’s Digest.
EDUCATION
Master of Science (M.S.) – Life Sciences Communication (May 2019)
University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI
Coursework included statistics, research methodologies, and strategic communication theory
Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) – Journalism (Dec 2009)
Wayne State University, Detroit, MI
Coursework included editing, reporting, journalism laws and ethics, and story structure
SKILLS
Software: Adobe (Acrobat, Photoshop, Premiere Pro), Dropbox, GitHub, Google (Colab, Docs, Hangouts, Sheets, Slides), HTML/CSS, MasterControl project management, Microsoft (365, Excel, OneDrive, Outlook, PowerPoint, Word), Python, Skype, Slack, WordPress, Zoom
Interpersonal & communication: AP Style, comfort with technology, editing, embraces change and learning, communication theory, data analysis, familiarity with digital communication tools, graphic design, growth mindset, illustration, interviewing, photography, reporting, social media, time and task management, troubleshooting, videography, written and verbal communication
LICENSES & CERTIFICATIONS
- Technical Writing Certification Course expected Apr 2022
- Technical Writing: How to write software documentation Mar 2021
- Creating Websites with HTML/CSS Sep 2020
- Creating WordPress Websites Jul 2020
HONORS & AWARDS
- Grand Prize winner, Best Article (Planet Forward; Mar 2020)
- Finalist, Best Article (Planet Forward; Mar 2019)
- Honored Instructor Award (University of Wisconsin-Madison; Dec 2018)
VOLUNTEER
Organizer (Feb 2020 – May 2021)
Local environmental non-profit
manage our social media account and organize public panel discussions to encourage conversation and debate at a community level; attend and sometimes lead bi-weekly meetings; do graphic design work to promote our public initiatives
Teacher aide (May 2017 – Mar 2020)
Madison Metropolitan School District
help teachers weekly in schools that emphasize Black excellence and LQBTQ+ safety; assist students with special needs in performing daily tasks; lead reading and math groups for students in kindergarten through second grade