Me

EDUCATION

AB: Harvard University

MPA: Columbia University School of International and Public Affairs

Non-degree coursework:
Parson's School of Design
School of Visual Arts

I've been helping nonprofit organizations communicate for more than 30 years, the last 20+ primarily through graphic design. I believe in the power of presentation and that design helps inspire action β€” actions as diverse as making a donation, learning a language, or seeking medical care. Graphic design can clarify content, provoke emotion, and elucidate ideas. It can arouse interest and stimulate thinking. It can draw people in, light them a path, and move them to respond. It’s about using form to enhance function.

I came to graphic design from a nonprofit β€” and non-design β€” background. For several years, I worked for New York City nonprofits in jobs involving fundraising, advocacy, outreach and direct service. I've written grant proposals and press releases, developed and run workshops in schools and for CBO's, prepared reports and budgets, conducted evaluations, and helped build a city-wide network of college access professionals.

In 1997, I realized that any task remotely involving design captivated me. I enrolled in graphic design classes, apprenticed myself to a small design firm, and within a short time had a few clients and was a working graphic designer.

Since then, I have designed a wide variety of materials for nonprofit organizations, both print and online. Most of my work serves development goals, although I'm delighted when I get to work on program materials. I help some clients with writing and editing, as well as more general fundraising and communication strategizing. And thanks to Apple, Google, et al., I do it from my home office on Long Island, about an hour from Manhattan.