I’m one of the lucky ones. My day job reflects my passions and leverages my strengths. And while my work is an important part of who I am, it is far from the full story.I know from many years of experience that good communication is not a “soft skill” – it is a critical business enabler. Clear and compelling communications have the power to inspire and activate, to drive strategic clarity and focus, to win
hearts and minds, and to facilitate alignment and collaboration. It can quite literally mean life or death for a project or initiative.
I’ve been a communicator and storyteller my entire life. I have a Master of Fine Arts degree and an English minor – an unconventional background in the corporate world. Art taught me to think differently. To see nuance and meaning in everyday things. To tell stories without words and communicate in layers. And it taught me to view the world in terms of possibilities, and to shape that vision into reality. I also have a life-long love of words and writing in all its forms. I can write the best emails you’ve ever read (a joke, but not really).
Responsibility is one of my core values, and I work hard every day to bring it to life through my work. I know that companies that prioritize responsibility will survive and thrive while others will not. It may take up-front investment, and it’s not always easy, but doing the right thing will always pay off in the long run. I help the company identify its most material responsibility priorities, set goals, align business practices, and report on our progress.
In my 20 years at Altria, I’ve held roles across a range of functions: corporate responsibility and community relations; strategy and business development; investor relations; marketing; and corporate communications. Over time I’ve woven together these different experiences into a unique and holistic perspective. I’m able to see opportunities and challenges from multiple angles and understand how these different disciplines intersect. I lean into my strengths, embrace a good challenge, and lead with my heart.
Speaking of heart – I’m a mother of two, an environmentalist and outdoor enthusiast. I’m passionate about building culture, bringing humanity into business, and always pushing for positive change. I believe business IS personal. And I recognize that any success I’ve had was only partly earned, and much more to do with privilege, luck and those who’ve supported and advocated for me along the way.