My Story

I graduated from Fairleigh Dickinson University in 2001 with a degree in Graphic Design and a Minor in Art History. I began my career as a graphic designer in Parsippany, NJ and later moved to Glens Falls, NY to work for Reliable Racing Supply Co. I completed my graduate degree in Art Education in 2016 at The Pennsylvania State University in State College, PA. I was hired at Missisquoi Valley Union High School in 2012, and currently teach Advanced Studio Art, Graphic Design and AP Art. I am also an art instructor at Burlington City Arts in Burlington, VT.  When I'm not busy at school you can find me teaching stained glass at my home studio, Blue Heron Art Studio, in Saint Albans, VT where I live with my energetic dogs, Maple & Charlie and my supportive girl friend Anna.

As an art educator I have interests in a lot of processes and materials, but over the past few years I’ve grown to really love stained glass. I love creating something beautiful that captures the light. I also have a graphic design background, and have always worked with lettering and Illustrations. Colored pencil, pen and watercolor are some of my favorite materials to combine. 

When creating stained glass, I start with sketches and research. Then I move to the computer to draw my design. I use my Cricut to cut out the vinyl stencil pieces. Once I label the stencils, choose the glass and cut them out, I grind the edges to refine the shapes and apply the copper foil before burnishing. Once the burnishing is complete, I reassemble and arrange the pieces, apply the flux and begin to solder. Once the soldering step is complete, I use Novacan Black Patina to blacken the solder and finish the piece with wax and polish. 

​