Accomplished professional with a diverse background spanning from the State of Illinois - Secretary of State to the Chicago Tribune, showcasing expertise in policy interpretation and exceptional writing abilities. Excelled in evaluating documentation and testimony, enhancing public trust through integrity and professionalism. Demonstrated proficiency in computer skills and a knack for meeting tight deadlines, contributing to significant process improvements.
Overview
21
21
years of professional experience
Work History
Formal Hearing Officer
State of Illinois - Secretary of State
01.2020 - Current
Actively participating in the State's newest remote TEAMS hearings by conducting remote, online formal hearings, evaluating scanned, online documents as well as reviewing formal orders through online format.
Conducting in-person formal hearings for consideration of driving relief, including evaluating testimony and drivers' abstracts as well as documentary evidence presented during hearings in accordance with existing policies and procedures.
Understanding the laws, Illinois Vehicle Code and policies regarding public safety as well as alcohol/drug classifications and requirements of documentation.
Writing clear and concise orders of recommendation based on consideration of the findings of fact.
Serving as a formal hearing reviewer to assess the appropriateness of recommendations of relief, check the content for accuracy and assist and edit the text for clarity.
Assisting the Hearing Administration Department in additional duties as needed.
Providing help and information to new employees.
Informal Hearing Officer
State of Illinois - Secretary of State
01.2018 - 01.2020
Consulting with and assisting applicants in-person or by phone, including reviewing and analyzing driving abstracts and documents, determining applicants' current driving status and clearly explaining the steps required to obtain driving relief.
Conducting informal hearing and composing reports to recommend driving relief based on testimony, driving history and documents submitted.
Understanding Illinois Vehicle Code, laws and regulations as well as any violations that appear on the applicants' driving record resulting in fines, suspensions or revocations.
Enhancing public trust in the hearing process by consistently demonstrating impartiality, integrity, and professionalism.
Public Service Clerk
State of Illinois - Secretary of State
11.2011 - 01.2018
Performing as a Team Leader to assist fellow employees with procedures, problem solving and training.
Assisting customers with obtaining ID's and driver's licenses and understanding the documents required. Administering vision and written tests.
Reviewing driving records and foreign documents per USCIS guidelines. Inputting information efficiently and accurately.
Enhancing customer satisfaction by efficiently processing transactions and addressing inquiries.
Sales Associate
Pepperidge Farm
01.2005 - 11.2011
Communicating with store managers and route managers.
Assisting in product promotions.
Maintaining inventory.
Employing use of handheld computers in remote locations.
Merchandising product, organizing racks and shelves to maintain store visual appeal.
Engaging customers.
Writer
Chicago Tribune
05.2003 - 11.2005
Utilizing exceptional writing, editing, and proofreading skills to produce engaging and error-free content.
Collaborating with editors to refine drafts, ensuring consistent tone and style across various platforms.
Interviewing individuals by phone and in-person to write feature news stories.
Generating ideas for new content series or formats based on research, audience interests and market trends.
Contributing film reviews and analyses.
Maintaining a high standard of factual accuracy.
Meeting tight deadlines.
Education
Master of Science - Written Communications
National-Louis University
Chicago, IL
12.2001
Bachelor of Science - Communications
Ithaca College
Ithaca, NY
1992
Skills
Policy Knowledge and Interpretation
Excellent Written and Verbal Communication
Task Prioritization and Time Management
Analytical Thinking
Goal Setting
Administrative Procedures
Computer Literacy
Interpersonal Skills
Problem-solving abilities
Organizational Skills
Team Collaboration
Decision-Making
Multitasking Abilities
Attention to Detail
Timeline
Formal Hearing Officer
State of Illinois - Secretary of State
01.2020 - Current
Informal Hearing Officer
State of Illinois - Secretary of State
01.2018 - 01.2020
Public Service Clerk
State of Illinois - Secretary of State
11.2011 - 01.2018
Sales Associate
Pepperidge Farm
01.2005 - 11.2011
Writer
Chicago Tribune
05.2003 - 11.2005
Master of Science - Written Communications
National-Louis University
Bachelor of Science - Communications
Ithaca College
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