No stranger to the written word, I credit others for starting me on this pathway. From learning editing from my mother to on-going critiques during the bi-monthly meetings of my three writing groups (Low Writers, Rotary Writers, Saint Aidan’s Writing Group), I hone my words, phrases and paragraphs to best capture their essence. I listen for interesting stories and ideas, which can be easily converted into writing.
Raised in Boulder, Colorado, I moved to Southern California after receiving my Bachelor of Arts degree in English from the University of Colorado. There I taught high school English and Journalism, coordinated secondary curriculum and served as an assistant superintendent for educational services in two school districts.
Additionally, I taught courses in educational leadership, curriculum/instruction and assessment as an adjunct professor at University of La Verne, a private university in Los Angeles County. I was also an advisory board member for Azusa Pacific University, California Polytechnic University in the literacy and child development fields, and the President’s Council for the University of La Verne.
Serving as chairperson for Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) enabled me to visit schools throughout Southern California from San Diego to Palm Springs, Ventura and Lake Arrowhead. Subsequently I chaired school visitations in Yokohama and Tokyo, Japan as well as Aiea, Pearl City, Hawaii.
When the 1984 Olympic Games were held in Los Angeles, I volunteered as a hostess for the Equestrian Events at Santa Anita Race Track. I enjoyed working in the Athletes’ Lounge meeting many of those medaling in the dressage and jumping competitions.
Believing in serving others, during my California years I was a member of the Whittier and Covina Soroptimist Clubs as well as West Covina Kiwanis. The Kiwanis Club nominated me for a West Covina Citizen of the Year award which I received in 1999.
Upon my Colorado return, I joined the Boulder Rotary Club. They recognized me in 2021 as Rotarian of the Year and previously in 2006 with the Humanitarian Award. I enjoyed serving as the club’s president in 2017-2018. Over the years, I have chaired the Family of Rotary Caring Committee, its program and study abroad committees. I believe in its motto – Service above Self.
I’ve been involved in supporting our local non-profit hospice organization – TRU Community Care (formerly hospice of Boulder and Broomfield Counties). There, I have served as board member and chairperson, capital campaign chair and co-chair of their Landmark Memory Care Center. I originated and co-facilitate a Writing through Grief group several times a year for TRU.
I couldn’t forget my undergrad alma mater. It did not forget me as I was honored in 2006 with the Alumni Recognition Award. I’ve enjoyed participating as a trustee on the University of Colorado Foundation, member on the University of Colorado Alumni Association Board of Advisors, College of Music Development Board and the School of Education Advisory Board.
I also found time in my California years to attend clown school. I graduated as Peppers. You may find my photo somewhere on my website pages!