I have lived in Syracuse, New York for over 50 years with time out for extended stays throughout Europe as part of my academic life at Syracuse University.  After thirty-five years at SU I retired only to co-found my own company (www.apteroconnor.com) offering program evaluation and planning solutions to diverse clients from the not-for-profit world. I remain a consultant and trusted advisor post-retirement from my firm.   

I currently write personal essays, memoir, and humor. I learned to adjust my writing style away from academic work through writer retreats, workshops, courses and the support of my writing critique pod, Elysium. 

I love to travel to visit family and friends or just learn about and enjoy the world outside of our own. My husband and I have been so lucky to experience the wonders of our own country, Canada, Mexico as well those throughout Europe, Scandinavia, and St. Petersburg in Russia. 

In between these adventures you can find me with a book by my fireplace or near a lake or an ocean. I enjoy my two precious grandchildren (and their parents of course). Even in cold snowy Syracuse winters long walks with friends are important to me. 

I am currently working on a memoir based on my family’s century old jewelry business in downtown Washington, D.C.  The story is related through the voice of the store and is set against a backdrop of the history during that century from 1898-1998.  Additionally, I take my readers through journeys as diverse as growing up during “the wonder years” of the fifties, unique travel adventures and the impact of the death of my young husband on my children and myself.

You may contact me at [email protected] with any questions or feedback. I look forward to hearing from you!