Class samples:

Acrylic on Velvet. 2023

Paper Cut, 2021

Model Magic Series 2022

Loom Weaving 2022

Dyeing techniques 2023

Acrylic, Collage, UV Ink 2023

PERSONAL PRACTICE:

Photography:

Painting:

Drawing:

Ceramics:

Multi Media:

Resume:

TEACHING PHILOSOPHY

I believe that a culture of Bravery and Courage forms the foundation of an authentic and thriving art classroom.

• Bravery grows when students are given permission to fail, reflect, and try again. I strive to create a supportive environment where students feel safe to express themselves and develop their identities.

• Courage is the ongoing practice of being brave. Through repetition, experimentation, and curiosity, students learn to problem-solve in meaningful ways that extend beyond the studio.

• I aim to foster Empathy, confidence, and creative resilience, helping students see art as a space for inquiry, exploration, and personal growth.

SUMMARY

• Dedicated Education Specialist with experience in curriculum development and instructional delivery.

• Skilled in working with diverse populations and implementing equity-driven, anti-discriminatory practices.

• Strong communication skills with a student-centered, motivation-focused teaching approach.

• Confident leader with strategic thinking abilities and a collaborative mindset.

• Big-picture vision aligned with measurable learning objectives and program goals.

TEACHING & EDUCATION EXPERIENCE

Thurston Woods School – Milwaukee
Art Teacher K-8
2024

• Developed and taught art curriculum for diverse elementary learners.

• Integrated studio habits of mind, creative exploration, and technical skill-building.

• Fostered a supportive, inquiry-based classroom environment.

Mad Science Inc.
After-School Science Programming, Grades K–8
February 2023 – Present

• Deliver hands-on STEM lessons to elementary and middle school students.

• Use inquiry-based learning to support problem-solving and scientific thinking.

• Manage diverse classroom environments and adapt instruction for student needs.

University of Wisconsin–Milwaukee
Art Education Program
Fall 2022 – Present

• Engage in teacher preparation coursework, studio practice, and field experiences.

• Develop standards-based lesson plans for diverse learning styles and abilities.

Story Time With Soozie – Video Art & Literacy Program
March 2020 – March 2021

• Created an online literacy and art series using picture books as creative prompts.

• Integrated reading comprehension strategies with visual arts processes.

• Produced engaging multimedia content to support at-home learning.

Milwaukee Art Museum
Docent Program
2018– 2020

• Conducted interactive museum tours for youth and families.

• Supported visual literacy, close-looking strategies, and art interpretation skills.

VICI Aveda Institute – Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Administration / Licensed Instructor
2014 – 2018

• Implemented award and incentive systems to support sales and service benchmarks.

• Organized inspiration-based design contests to enhance creativity and stylistic skills.

• Coordinated advanced classes with visiting guest artists.

• Led an extracurricular Styling Club focused on advanced braiding and formal techniques.

• Taught Cosmetology Theory and Cutting in both classroom and hands-on lab environments.

Aveda Institute Los Angeles
Instructor
2011 – 2014

• Taught Salon Fundamentals and Aveda Hair Cutting Curriculum.

• Led Alpha I and Alpha II chemical curriculum classes, including Aveda Hair Color, Perm, Retexturizing, and Mizani Relaxers.

• Provided real-time coaching and written assessments on the clinic floor while maintaining Aveda service standards.

Aveda Institute Los Angeles
Instructor
2011 – 2014

• Taught Salon Fundamentals and Aveda Hair Cutting Curriculum.

• Led Alpha I and Alpha II chemical curriculum classes, including Aveda Hair Color, Perm, Retexturizing, and Mizani Relaxers.

• Provided real-time coaching and written assessments on the clinic floor while maintaining Aveda service standards.

ADDITIONAL PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE

Lovely Salon and Spa
Stylist
2018 – 2020

Flintridge Sacred Heart Academy
Resident Hair and Makeup Designer
2001 – 2014

• Designed 25 high school theatre productions with student artists.

• Taught classes and hands-on design assignments.

• Managed student crews of 20–60 artists for two productions per year.

Kriza Salon Spa, Topanga Canyon, CA
Master Colorist
2009 – 2011

Wella National Teams – Procter & Gamble Beauty Professional, Los Angeles, CA
West Coast Technical Trainer
2007 – 2009

• Supported and increased sales through education.

• Trained new and existing clients in Wella, Sebastian, and Graham Webb product lines.

• Developed and implemented seminars to cultivate new clients and accounts.

• Achieved 20% growth in 2008.

Aveda Southwest – Estée Lauder, Los Angeles, CA
Technical Trainer LA and Central California
2004 – 2007

• Instructed clients in Aveda product use, including Hair Color and retail lines.

• Developed strategies to increase sales and manage product sell-through.

• Achieved 30% growth in 2006 and 25% growth in 2005.

Carlton Hair International, Los Angeles, CA
Manager
2002 – 2004

• Managed a team of 22, including stylists, assistants, and front desk staff.

• Conducted classes in color theory, application, design, consultation, and team building.

• Maintained a full clientele.

Assistant Manager
2001 – 2002

• Supported team building and daily operations.

• Ensured high-quality customer service from client arrival to departure.

• Motivated employees to increase sales through enhanced consultation and product knowledge.

EDUCATION

• Art Education Post-Bac, University of Wisconsin (2022–2025)

• Licensed Cosmetology Educator, Wisconsin

• Cosmetology License, California & Wisconsin

• Aveda Certified Instructor

• B.S. Communications/Theatre Arts, Eastern Michigan University – Ypsilanti, MI

• Cosmetology, Aveda Institute (1996)

TRAINING AND DEVELOPMENT

• Post-Bachelor work in Art History (2011)

• Achieving Your Highest Priorities, Franklin Covey (2006)

• 7 Habits of Highly Effective People, Franklin Covey (2004)

• Aveda Learning Garden – Teacher Training (2004)

• How to Be a More Effective Team Leader, Rockhurst University (2003)

• Teacher Training, Carlton Hair International (2002)