Words Behind the Work

Published as an opinion in The News Virginian, this essay explores the intersection of education policy, equity, and public trust during the COVID-19 pandemic. Writing from my perspective as a Virginia school board member, I examined how reopening decisions affected students who relied most heavily on schools for stability and support. The piece demonstrates my ability to translate complex policy questions into clear, persuasive writing grounded in both evidence and lived experience.

A long-form profile exploring the life, identity, and career of former NFL running back and UVA alumnus Thomas Jones. By focusing on the person rather than the celebrity, the story offers readers a thoughtful look at purpose, perseverance, and life beyond professional sports.

Wrote the launch announcement for the Massachusetts Innovative Career Pathways (MAICP) website, translating a complex, multi-partner initiative into clear, audience-focused messaging that supported statewide awareness and engagement.

A practical case study published by the Council for Advancement and Support of Education (CASE) demonstrating how UVA used Twitter Website Cards to expand the reach and engagement of institutional storytelling.

A feature profile celebrating the creativity and accomplishments of UVA student James Cassar through the structure of a vinyl record. The story intentionally reframes disability by centering James' passion for music, entrepreneurship, and campus leadership, allowing readers to discover his disability as one part of a much larger story.

The first novel in an original fantasy series blending adventure, social commentary, and questions of identity, belonging, and justice through an imaginative, character-driven world.

A personal essay exploring the tension between preserving literary history and making classic works more inclusive for modern audiences, using humor and cultural commentary to examine a complex public debate.

An example of earned media resulting from a long-term communications strategy. By positioning BackStory's digital transformation as a broader public media story, I secured industry coverage that elevated the show's profile, reinforced its strategic direction, and introduced its work to new audiences across the public broadcasting community.

A feature celebrating the rich traditions of the University of Virginia's Final Exercises by highlighting twelve memorable moments from commencement history. The story combined historical research with a highly shareable format, making institutional history engaging and accessible for alumni, students, families, and prospective audiences.