Home: Brooklyn and the Catskill Mountains, NY. Age: Gen X, so basically ageless. Organization: TEN3 Public Relations. Title: Founder & CEO. Pronouns: She/Her/Hers. Significant other: My husband and partner, Anthony Robustelli. Alma mater: Mansfield University of Pennsylvania.
Current project: Serving on the board of Brooklyn Youth Music Project, a community-based nonprofit that builds character and community through musical excellence. Recent recognition: Cited as one of “10 Black PR Leaders to Know” by the Public Relations Society of America, New York Chapter. Recent professional development: Launched our Thought Leadership division focused on helping executives share their stories with others who can learn from them or support their efforts. Latest contribution to others: Mentoring through the American Corporate Partners (ACP) program, helping military veterans make the most of their transition to the corporate arena. What’s been your big (or biggest leap)? Starting my own marketing communications agency in 2019. What are you most proud of? Being a New York native. Hobbies: I’m a bit of a crafter. My 14-year-old and I have an Etsy shop where we sell beaded bracelets. Recently viewed and recommended: Stutz. The Jonah Hill documentary touches on the actions we can take to make the most of the human experience, live with gratitude, rid ourselves of resentments and help others.
Personality profile: Funny, inquisitive, and quick-witted. What is your greatest joy? My family and helping others through my work. What word or phrase do you use far too often? On it like a bonnet! What natural talent have you neglected? Writing poetry. I was a performance poet years ago and would love to get back to it. What occupation, other than your own, do you most admire? Teachers and hospice workers. What is your favorite place (or way) to spend money? It doesn’t get better than a Michelin star restaurant for me. How do you relieve stress? My morning routine of meditation and working out. What ingredient is essential to your perfect vacation? A natural body of water.
What was your first paying job? Working at a greeting card store, restocking the cards and keeping little kids from jumping on the giant stuffed animals. What was your favorite college course? Shakespeare. What book have you repeatedly read? A Confederacy of Dunces, by John Kennedy Toole. What’s prominently featured on your home or office wall? A sign board reading “Don’t Talk About it, Be About it”. What world event has had the greatest influence on your life? 9/11. My husband and I watched the first tower come down from our balcony. It redefined what it means to be a New Yorker.
Good work is not the result of taking forever to get started. It drives clients crazy – get going!
What widely held belief do you reject? That life is too short. In fact, life is too long to not live as your authentic self. What mega-trend most excites you? Digital nomadism. Being able to work when and where you want is a game-changer.
What title would you choose for the movie about your life? A Million Second Chances. Or possibly, Escape from Long Island. What actor would you choose to play you in the movie about your life? Alfre Woodard. Who would you like to spend an evening with, in heaven? My mom. What period in your life would you do differently, if you could? My teen years.
Personal motto: Faith is a passion for the impossible. Desired epitaph: Left it better than she found it.