About Mary Ellen

From a young age, Mary Ellen had a deep passion for creating beautiful things with her hands. This curiosity ultimately guided her to a successful career as a graphic designer and illustrator, as well as a former beauty salon colorist, stylist, and salon owner. She became a published, award-winning salon owner, colorist, makeup artist, senior stylist, and educator for top salons in New York’s fashion and beauty industry. Her work has had a significant impact, not only within her community and industry but also in a specific area of interest, bringing people’s visions to life.

After an unexpected car accident, Mary Ellen found herself at a crossroads. She bravely chose to explore new avenues for her artistic expression. During her ten years of college experience, she delved into journalism, information technology, illustration, graphic design, and photography. These diverse interests became an outlet that exceeded her wildest expectations. Mary Ellen’s remarkable adaptability and innovative spirit, fueled by her creativity, have allowed her to flourish as an accomplished artist, despite the physical challenges she faces daily as a full-time wheelchair user.

Accomplishments 

Mary Ellen’s career has been a journey of versatility and adaptability. She began her career in the fashion and beauty industry, transitioning into the corporate sector as an Art Director and Design and Marketing Assistant. Her experience spans companies as diverse as Saks Fifth Avenue, Glemby International at Neiman Marcus, ADP Pension Services, The Hour Publishing Company, Panache Magazine, and Windstream Enterprise (formerly Broadview Networks, Inc.). This adaptability has allowed her to thrive in a variety of professional environments.

Mary Ellen’s academic journey showcases her dedication and excellence. She holds a Master’s License in Hair and Makeup Artistry, as well as an Associate of Arts in Journalism and an Associate of Science in Graphic Design and Information Technology from Valencia College in Orlando, Florida. Her notable achievements include graduating on the President’s List with Honors and earning a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Illustration from Western Connecticut State University in Danbury, Connecticut, where she graduated cum laude. These accomplishments reflect her commitment to her education and her field.

This adaptability has enabled her to thrive in various professional environments. Over the past two decades, she has worked on numerous election campaign projects for the Republican Party. Additionally, she has helped establish an online presence for non-profit organizations that serve disabled communities in New York City and supported numerous startup companies with their branding and digital strategy.

Mary Ellen collaborates with other non-profits to spread joy through professionally sung music, using her artistic skills in both print and online formats to ensure their presence. As the Immediate Past President of a well-known Toastmasters International group, she also educates young people in public speaking. Through her art certifications with Grumbacher International, she has taught many individuals the skills of artistry. Her efforts have been instrumental in creating a lasting presence for numerous companies, resulting in increased revenues that continue to support their ongoing success.