From school visits to university lectures and creative conferences, I love sharing what I’ve learned as an author, illustrator, and educator.

Read on to learn more about session formats, topics, and booking a visit.

speaking

✸ Guest Speaking ✸

  • Keynotes + Panels

    From industry conferences to creative platforms, I offer keynote talks and panel discussions that dive into the realities of building a sustainable, fulfilling art career.

    I share my journey as an illustrator, author, and content creator, along with insights into the business of creativity, navigating identity in publishing, and making space for inclusive storytelling.

  • University Lectures

    I regularly speak at colleges and universities, offering lectures and discussions tailored to illustration students and emerging creatives.

    These sessions often include Q&As, personal anecdotes, and portfolio reviews; blending inspiration with practical advice on thriving in today’s industry.

  • Literary Events

    At literary events and libraries, I participate in readings, signings, and creative workshops for educators, librarians, children and families.

    These events are a chance to connect with my readers, celebrate stories, and discuss the power of representation in children’s books, whether on a panel or in a cozy library.

Past Speaking Engagements

Procreate ✸

Schoolism ✸

SCBWI ✸

Women in Animation ✸

University of Arizona ✸

Butler University ✸

Sheridan College ✸

Procreate ✸ Schoolism ✸ SCBWI ✸ Women in Animation ✸ University of Arizona ✸ Butler University ✸ Sheridan College ✸

School Visits

I offer interactive school presentations that are fun, inclusive, and focused on creativity and representation. Each session is tailored to the age group and includes a reading, live drawing demo, behind-the-scenes look at how my books are made, and time for Q&A.

Topics may include:
✸ The journey to becoming an author-illustrator
✸ How picture books are made
✸ Representation in storytelling
✸ Creative inspiration and finding your voice
✸ Live drawing or character design demos

I’m available for in-person and virtual visits. Sessions can be adapted for classroom sizes, assemblies, or library events.

  • I typically offer two visit lengths, but can adjust for each school. For an in-person visit, I am able to do four sessions in a school day.


    1) Presentation (Best for Grades 1–5)
    A 1-hour interactive session that includes:

    • An introduction to myself and all the different hats I wear as a professional artist

    • My journey to becoming an author/illustrator

    • Book reading (chosen by school)

    • Reflection of chosen book

    • How I write/illustrate books

    • A live drawing demo and Q&A

    2) Storytime (Best for JK–Grade 1)
    A 30-minute session with:

    • An intro about myself and my career

    • A reading of one of my books

    • A short drawing demonstration

    • A mini Q&A

  • Yes! I also offer an optional workshop component depending what what book is chosen.

    Workshop topics can include:

    • Character design for books and movies

    • How to draw ___ from my book

    • Collage activity

    • Creating name tags

    Custom workshops can also be created to suit the schools’ needs.

  • Most of my sessions are designed for JK–Grade 5, but older students and teens are absolutely welcome!

    Many enjoy learning about illustration, writing, and creative careers—and it can be a great way to re-engage their love for drawing and storytelling.

  • Yes!

    Depending on the visit, I can provide a book order form with a personalized Google Form link so families can easily purchase signed copies of my books.

    For virtual or out-of-town visits, I would encourage schools to connect with their local bookstore to arrange book sales.

    (This is totally optional but always appreciated.)

  • My visit fee is dependent on many factor including the length, the number of sessions, travel costs, and whether it is in-person or virtual.

    Contact me for a custom quote on your visit!