My mother was ahead of her time. Back when most moms stayed at home, my mom was running a PR agency from our house, where she exposed me to the industry and shared her great passion for the business. It was contagious and I knew I was going to be in the business form a very young age.

I received my Bachelor's Degree in Journalism and Public Relations from Kent State University

My biggest challenge is not about gender, it is about the industry and the rapidly changing landscape that necessitates constantly adapting and continual learning to keep up with the technology and try and stay ahead of the curve. 

Creativity and problem solving are among my greatest strengths. 

About four years ago I came  up with a concept that I have developed into a second company called Newsline 360, which I co-founded with my husband and two colleagues. It is the culmination of all of my passions and a service that will enhance Kurman Communications, the company that I built 34 years ago. I take great pride in these two accomplishments and while I have enjoyed a great reputation in the industry as a respected boutique practice, I am hoping the same for Newsline 360.

Of course, I want to continue to expand Kurman Communications and I am looking to branch into new markets in an effort to diversify my client base. As far as Newsline 360 I am hoping to build the brand and awareness of these services throughout North America by creating sales team to market it.

I had a great upbringing that I owe much of my success to. My mother had a great deal of self confidence, was creative and lit up the room when she entered. She modeled good business ethics, as she was hard working and always honest. She made work look like fun but I observed and knew how much work it took to seamlessly accomplish everything that she did. People admired her. She was a leader and an awesome mother and role model. In addition, bringing the new technology and working for my clients inspires me to do more and be better. 

It simply boils down to providing a service for people that will help them to grow themselves and their businesses. The platform is my gift to the PR and Marketing World. 

• Kent State School of Communications Advisory Board
• Longtime Board Member of the Green City Market, managing its branding and public relations. 

I was recently named one of Chicago Business Journals Top 48 Women. I am is a founding member of the Today's Chicago's Woman's Hall of fame and  I was named by Successful Meeting magazine as the country’s best meeting planner for my work as director of the first Automotive News World Conference, which is  now in its 40^th year during my tenure at Crain's.

I enjoy dining out, going to the theater and travelling.