Current projects include specialty store consulting, newsletter/website articles, merchandising strategies for custom jewelry line. In addition, pro bono work for not-for-profit resale shop makeover as well as branding proposals for area business district undergoing revitalization efforts. An ideal way to combine my visual merchandising experience with my passion for small businesses and historic downtown shopping districts!

Joined the faculty in 1991, creating courses in Visual Merchandising and, later, advanced Practicums for Window Display. We were eventually able to move several of the classes into Marshall Field's flagship store, allowing us to leverage the store's workshops and windows as a learning laboratory for the students.Many of my former students have now moved into careers in Visual, including those who joined the store's Interior and Windows teams. Several have become instructors for other Columbia College courses. I am currently teaching "Clothing and Society", a course that examines dress as behavior--fashion meets sociology by way of cultural influences and current events. Challenging, eye-opening and, above all, fun!

Did you know that Chicago's Six Corners is a Main Street community, part of the National Trust for Historic Preservation? Located in the 45th Ward, the district hosts a wide variety of locally/independently owned businesses. With the assistance of grant monies, retailers are able to secure funding support for "facelifts". It's a valuable opportunity to evaluate branding, visual merchandising and more.

The perfect opportunity to "feed my curiosity" for exhibition design. After working at MIM and Pop-up At Loop, the desire to learn more about museum work--both as discipline overlaps and differentiations--led to NU and a certificate in Museum Studies. Shortly thereafter, I had the chance to join the volunteer crew for the startup, pop-up Foodseum. Our first exhibit opened in September, celebrating the history of the hot dog and encased meats. Next on the menu? Chocolate. Yum!

Mark your calendars for Friday, February 18, Ox-Bow's Annual Winter Benefit and Dance Party! I'm working with Laurie Price, Natalie Edwards and the Ox-Bow team to create a fabulous evening @ Architectural Artifacts--please join us!

How does one adapt standard visual merchandising directives in order to accommodate the needs of blind and/or visually impaired customers? High contrast signage and display was a key consideration-- make it bold, shoppable and appealing. An extensive product assortment ranged from large print publications and "talking" electronics to kitchen tools and games. An exciting challenge, taking the broad tenets of design principles and merging them with very specific customer needs.

Yes, windows DO matter. I'm passionate about thoughtful and creative use of storefront space and, as such, am delighted to collaborate with CLA on its Pop-Up Art Loop program. Art galleries are "popping up" throughout downtown Chicago, re-energizing unused office space and providing exhibit venues for the city's artists. Check out www.popupartloop.com for details. . .

This year's 75 anniversary production is a multi-disciplinary presentation, showcasing fashion, fine arts and student performances.  Maria Pinto (BFA 1990) will be honored with the Legend of Fashion Award--the shows are to be held in the newly-opened Sullivan Galleries (in the former Carson, Pirie, Scott landmark bldg).

The world's coolest job. Moving from trimmer to Window Display manager, later supervising Visual operations for both Interiors and Windows.Spring Flower Shows, Flea Markets and major fundraising events (i.e., Glamorama)--combined with the Great Tree, animated Christmas windows and more-- guaranteed non-stop creative challenges.A high-profile position, extensive media experience, civic partnerships and Board positions reinforced the company's role in Chicago.

Officially shifted from theatre to retail. While there were no display windows at this large suburban store, I was kept busy with mannequins, lettering, beds, trend strikepoints and more.

Earned the princely sum of 50.00 ea. week, learned to upholster, create flashpots, re-create salt glazed pottery and more. Also developed endless variations of dishes prepared with instant potatoes.

Very glamorous. Hauling scenery while wearing period clothing, acting, dancing, singing and more in the nation's longest-running outdoor drama, "The Lost Colony". Outstanding opportunity to build scene painting skills, set design and how to handle a scenery flat in a nor'easter.