Title: Practice Development Manager
Firm: Porter Wright Morris & Arthus LLP
Education: B.A. with a double major in Journalism and Spanish from The Ohio State University; M.S. in Marketing and Communications, Franklin University
Where did you grow up? Columbus, Ohio
What was your first job? Other than babysitting, my first job was assisting with odd jobs at my grandmother’s art gallery — Herndon House — in Westerville, Ohio.
What would you be doing if you weren't in your current job? My dream jobs include working in corporate marketing at DSW, running my own clothing boutique, and being a best-selling novelist.
What is currently on your iPod? Grateful Dead, Pearl Jam, The Beatles, and a lot of ’80s music. Have various mixes to work out to as well. )
Where is your favorite place to go to relax? Shopping at Easton with friends, out to dinner and drinks.
What is your favorite TV show? Favorite movie? I have become addicted to Scandal and I love Kitchen Crashers and other remodeling shows on HGTV. Favorite movie is hard. Certainly depends on my mood I suppose. Some of my favorites include tearjerkers like “The Notebook” and “Beaches.”
What is your favorite cuisine? I love Mexican food (especially if Margaritas count as cuisine ☺)
If you were stranded on a desert island, who or what would you want to have with you? While I wouldn’t want to force my kids into a life of isolation on a desert island, speaking hypothetically and selfishly, I would need to have them with me. After that, and since I just watched Tom Hanks’ “Cast Away,” I start thinking about logical items I would want to have with me so I can survive, since I am probably not long for this world if I had to depend on my “Survivorman” skills. And, of course, a working phone so I can call someone to come get us when we’ve had enough.
Who are the most important people in your life? My three kids — Gavin (11), Kennedy (8) and Donovan (6). They mean everything to me.
What is the first thing you read in the morning? I’m usually checking email first thing.
How did you get into legal marketing? Like many of us, I kind of fell into it. I was referred by a mentor of mine — Gael O’Brien — to be the second Marketing Director at Schottenstein, Zox & Dunn (now Ice Miller). I was three years out of undergrad and had been working at a small PR firm here in Columbus.
What is the best thing about your job? The best thing about my job is working with such an amazing team. I have met so many wonderful people both at my firm and in our profession that have truly become some of my closest friends. I also appreciate that my firm has provided me the opportunity to build a career while keeping my family my priority in my life.
What advice would you offer a new entrant to the world of legal marketing? Look for mentors — both within your firm and across the profession — who can help guide you in your career and provide you with moral support. Leverage the resources provided through LMA. When I first entered the profession, I relied on LMA (well, actually its predecessor organization, but that’s dating myself) to help guide me. Attend the LMA Conference — you will learn so much — and you will meet so many wonderful resources. It will definitely be a worthwhile investment for your firm. Also, I encourage you to attend LMA Ohio’s new Quick Start programs that we will be offering in Columbus and Cleveland in 2014. This web-based group learning will be offered free to members.