Education and Selected Professional Development Activities
I’m committed to continuous learning and to keeping my skills current in writing, editing, administration, and digital communication. Below is a selection of recent courses, training, and past academic work that informs the services I offer.
Recent Courses and Webinars (2023-2025)
Virtual Assistance and Administration
VA Handbook virtual assistant course by Joanne Munro
Podcast-related Training
Podcast Virtual Assistant Certification course, offered by the Podcast VA Association
Discover Descript by Lou Bortone (Descript is software for editing audio and video)
Newsletter-Related Training
Email marketing for virtual assistants, by Joanne Munro
I completed multiple courses in Simon Fraser University’s Editing Certificate Program as part of my professional development while working in communications roles at the Office of the BC Ombudsperson and WorkSafeBC. These included the following:
Basic Copy Editing
Basic Proofreading
Plain Language Principles
Writing and Editing for the Web
Structural Editing
Ethics and Legal Issues in Writing and Publishing
Document Design and Production for Editors
Memberships in Professional Associations
Canadian Association of Virtual Assistants
Post-secondary Education
Master of Arts, Urban Studies, Simon Fraser University, 2017
I conducted original, empirical research on the impact of Airbnb on Vancouver’s rental housing stock. Interest in my work from journalists and legislators led to me doing over 80 media interviews and accepting multiple invitations to present and to speak to municipalities and organizations interested in short-term rental policy.
Bachelor of Arts, History (Hons), University of Victoria, 2005
Honours thesis: “A Democratic Development of the Highest Significance”?: Considering the Legacy of Frederick Law Olmsted’s Urban Parks
This degree strengthened my skills in research, analysis, and writing on historical and environmental topics.
Certificate in Journalism, Langara College, 1999
This was my foundational training in writing clearly, concisely and accurately, as well as in the core skills of journalism.