"I am an awarding winning writer and public speaker as well as an instructor who teaches these subjects at University of Phoenix.

Why are superb speaking and writing skills important? They are valued in the classroom and the workplace because people who are good writers and speakers are viewed as more capable, intelligent, responsible, and credible. They allow you to communicate a message with clarity. They improve your ability to persuade, lead, and negotiate. They open doors to a range of exciting opportunities.

I began writing as a reporter for the Daily Aztec when I was a student at San Diego State University. My first job was teaching broadcasting and journalism at the University of Nebraska, Omaha. I then moved to the Roughrider State where I was the award winning news director at the NPR-affiliated radio station at the University of North Dakota. After six years, I returned to the Golden State to become the program and public affairs director for a Los Angeles radio station. After 12 years, I transitioned to a public relations career.

I was the PR director at the largest residential care facility for seniors west of the Mississippi River. Eight years later, I established my own public relations and marketing agency in the Los Angeles area. At the same time, I began teaching communications and journalism courses for University of Phoenix.

I have delivered presentations in a range of settings and was a Member of the Year for the National Speakers Association. I have been active in the Society for Professional Journalists; Public Relations Society of America; Healthcare Public Relations and Marketing Association, Southern California; Sales and Marketing Executives International; and the Nonprofit Communications and Media Network.

I have a wealth of volunteer experience, including serving as the senior assistant governor for communications for Rotary International District 5280. In the community I have been on the communications committees and boards for a number of chambers of commerce as well as a cu" less...