A little about me…
Our parents taught my sister and me this life lesson: be useful and be kind. That says it all, really. Be a good person and leave the world a better place.
I was born and raised in Corning. Growing up, my sister and I worked for our father in his computer business. By age ten, I was doing data entry and the payroll for some of the nations biggest companies, including several Fortune 500 companies!
Dad was the Grand Exalted Ruler at the Elks Club, so he had us working every fish fry, Christmas Tom & Jerry party Mother’s Day brunch, and everything in between. We waited tables and washed dishes, then swept the floors after everyone went home. He taught us that all jobs are important and to be respected—no matter what they are. That strong work ethic and his humble leadership example has served us well our whole lives.
I graduated from Corning East High in 1979. I earned my associates degree in math & science from Corning Community College, my bachelor’s degree in psychology from the University of Buffalo, and my master’s degree in writing from Florida International University.
I’ve managed to wear a lot of hats over the years. In high school, I was our sorority president for three years. I had the honor of singing for two Popes: Pope John Paul II (now a saint!) and Pope Benedict. While living in Manhattan for ten years, I worked at a $4.4 billion hedge fund. I’ve worked as an actress in film and TV, earning an Emmy nomination! I am an author with four published novels. I was the president of a 501c3, where I oversaw the management of the organization working closely with the executive director and board members. I’ve balanced budgets and served in leadership positions nearly my entire life.
My whole life I have lived by our parent’s life lesson: be useful and be kind. When I’m not working to make this corner of the world better for all my neighbors, you’ll find me writing my next novel and learning to play the cello.
