What is your role in GISPP?
I’m the Communications Specialist—that means I run the social media accounts, update the website, design cute little graphics, and keep my eye open for stories that will highlight what makes GISPP special. Basically, I write about maps on the internet. And I remind you—yes, YOU—to follow GISPP on social media! Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn are all great places to keep up with the program.
What path led you to your role?
I wrote about software; I made toys; I named new colors of window blinds and shades; I encouraged parents to sign their kids up for summer camp. My career has been all over the map (ha!), but in the end, the connective tissue that binds all of my experiences together is sharing information and telling stories. The wonderful thing about my role is that it pulls together a little bit of every career experience I’ve ever had.
What’s your favorite map?
I can’t pick just one! I lived in Chicago for a decade so I have a soft spot for the Chicago El system map. Recently I discovered the Womens L Project, which takes that classic map and makes it even better by adding a layer of education about famous (and should-be-famous) women who dedicated their lives to making a difference in their communities.
If you ever video chat with me, you might see Charles Joseph Minard’s “Flow Map of Napoleon’s Invasion of Russia” over my shoulder in my home office. Part map and part statistical graphic, it reminds me how much information you can share at a glance when you design and shape it well.
Where is your favorite place to spend time in Madison? In the world?
I love the Madison Children’s Museum—my two kids always have a wonderful time there, and my husband and I got married in their rooftop garden.
If I could spend an extended amount of time in any other location, I would be in the Czech countryside right outside Prague. But I was born and raised in Indiana, so if you want to get really specific, for my money nothing beats a trackside seat at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway on the Sunday of Memorial Day weekend.
When you’re not at work, what are you doing?
During the spring, summer, and fall, I’m at a playground with my kids or going for a run; during the winter, we’re at a museum or anywhere that has space for them to run free. You can also find me tossing a ball around for my dog in all seasons.