Expertise

• Strategic planning
• Internal/external corporate communications
• Media relations
• Crisis/issues management
• Special events
• Brand management
• Community relations

Industries/Organizations Served

• Business-to-business services
• Financial services
• Construction and real estate
• Automotive
• Technology
• Gaming
• Foodservice

Professional Affiliations

• Public Relations Society of America
• Women’s Economic Club

Prior Professional Experience

• Marketing Director, Grant Thornton LLP, Southfield, MI
• Account Executive, Franco Public Relations Group, Detroit, MI
• Marketing Coordinator, Grant Thornton LLP, Southfield, MI
• Assistant Account Executive, Lezotte Miller Public Relations, Lansing, MI

Education

• Michigan State University, E. Lansing, Bachelor of Arts in Communication
• Michigan State University, E. Lansing, Master of Arts in Public Relations

What do you consider to be your greatest PR or business accomplishment?
I was instrumental in developing the Grant Thornton Executive Woman of the Year award from the initial research to its development and implementation. I have since seen the program grow from a mere idea to an annual event that is co-sponsored by three major companies, attended by more than 350 executives and viewed as a highly respected, one-of-a-kind award program in metro Detroit.

What do you see as your primary area of expertise?
The ability to relate to clients’ needs, having once been one. And planning; if a problem or issue arises, I don’t overreact. I am able to step back, assess the situation within the bigger picture, visualize the final goal and develop a plan of action to get there. I’m also a stickler for consistency.

What do you love most about S&A?
The firm’s dedication to the community. (And my smart and witty co-workers.)

What is the expression you use most often at work?
Thank you.

Who is your most admired leader and why?
My most admired "leaders" are those who lead my family - my mom and dad. Most of all, I admire them for teaching me to laugh at myself and for encouraging me to be kind, sweet and gentle yet strong and resilient.

What is the company you most admire and why?
Starbucks for leading with its heart. The leadership has proven that a company can provide long-term value for shareholders without sacrificing its core belief of treating its employees with respect and dignity.

How do you define success?
To be able to truly live in and appreciate the moment while not losing sight of long-term goals.

What is your general philosophy on life and work?
Don’t sweat the small stuff.

What are your favorite sports or recreational activities?
Teaching aerobics and spinning classes, running, snowboarding, reading and travel.

What is your favorite movie?
Meet the Parents.

What is your favorite food?
Cheese and chocolate (of most any variety).

What is your greatest vice?
See favorite food…or spreading myself too thin…or, OK, I admit it, Reality TV.

What is an interesting "factoid" about yourself?
My great-grandfather, Mariano Meconi, founded St. Julian Winery in Paw Paw, Mich.