Who I Am

I hope you will see from my background that I bring a wide range of skills my work as a writer, editor, educator and personal historian.

When I was sure I would be young forever, the times themselves encouraged me to act on any and all calls to adventure. I worked in public relations in London, England, studied acting at the Neighborhood Playhouse School of the Theater in New York, and earned a diploma from the Swedish Institute for Massage Therapy, also in New York. I held a variety of jobs in Canada: I was a correctional officer in a minimum security prison for young men, a waitress, and a legal secretary, and, briefcase in hand, I briefly sold telephone security systems to small businesses (well, one—no plaques for me). I kept hoping I would find a vocation. I am grateful that, ultimately, I did.

In 1986 I began a long and very rewarding career at Havergal College, an independent school for girls in Toronto where I taught academic English, media studies and dramatic arts while earning an MEd from the University of Toronto. One of my greatest pleasures came from developing and teaching The Writer’s Craft, the creative writing course for senior students. It has been said that we teach best what we most want to learn, and that is one reason I was delighted to be able to earn a Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing from the University of British Columbia after I left Havergal.

With my background in creative writing and editing, theatre and media studies and my training in business and healthcare, I have extensive and intensive experience working with young people and adults, including seniors, and can draw on a wide range of skills to help you realize your goals.

As a writing teacher, writer, editor and coach, I can assist you at any stage of your writing project. Together we can generate ideas, set clear and meaningful goals, and ensure the words shine.