Short Description I'm the President and Founder of MARQUEE, a strategic communications and special events consultancy where I blend professional strategy with big-hearted storytelling. A native of Youngstown, OH, my post-Hilltopper career journey started as a professional print and TV journalist, then took me into public and media relations, with experiences in various states and Washington, D.C., before I eventually returned home. I credit these diverse experiences and my time at Alliance with shaping my unique ability to "make something out of nothing" and ignite enthusiasm in others. I've also pursued graduate-level work at Stanford University and Kent State University.
While at Alliance, I proudly served as both Student Government President and President of Delta Omega Alpha Sorority, and was also an enthusiastic member of Kujawaiki, the Cheer Squad, and Pi Lambda Phi Little Sisters. My connection to my alma mater remains strong today, as I serve as the Vice President of the Alliance College Alumni Association, where I was also a charter member in helping to restart the organization.
Beyond my work with MARQUEE, I consider myself a tireless community architect. I'm the visionary behind the nonprofit PolishYoungstown, which I established in 2008 to revitalize the Mahoning Valley’s Polish-American community. My passion also led to the creation of Simply Slavic, a 501(c)(3) organization and festival that celebrates the broader Slavic culture. Whether I'm orchestrating inflatable Matryoshka dolls or curating culturally rich festivals, I move effortlessly between polished professionalism and grassroots passion, always building bridges between people, platforms, and possibilities.
My dedication extends to significant roles on the board of directors for the Autism Society of Mahoning Valley and the Autism Society of Ohio. I'm also actively involved with the Rotary Club of Youngstown, the Youngstown Press Club, and the Trumbull County Tourism Bureau. I'm known for my proven track record in orchestrating impactful events, steering strategic communications, and fostering deep community engagement.
I've been married to my husband, Mark, for over 30 years, and I credit our five children, five exchange student daughters, and a multitude of pets for their support in making all this beautiful life possible.
