I have inspired audiences both gay and straight from Los Angeles to Boston on the importance of community and how everyone can give of themselves unselfishly. I've gained my fame by speaking at colleges, universities and community groups about the importance of community, diversity, acceptance, self-esteem, how to stop the bullying in our schools and the future of the gay community.

I have been blessed with compassion and a witty sense of humor. All of my audiences have commented that they don't feel talked to in my lecture, but engaged and motivated.  My storytelling, sensitivity and passion shine through on how to have a positive influence in your community, embracing diversity and how one person can create the wave of change in the lives of others.  My audience will be informed why it is so important to be a role model and mentor in our communities. I am proud that my message offers hope, compassion and understanding for gay and straight communities. My lectures will leave you motivated to change your life and be the voice of change in your own community.

My history is interesting and the journey through my life has been exciting.  I am a playwright, director, actor and have co-hosted my own television show in Northern Michigan called, ARTiculation. My travels have also landed me in the beautiful Berkshires of Connecticut where I directed a performing arts program for seven years. (Seasonal) I have been included in the millennium edition of Who's Who in America and am thanked for my contribution in Dr. Ruth Westheimer's new book on her Guide to College Life.  She was so great to work with and get to know.

The summer of 2010, I was the keynote speaker at the International Lesbian and Gay Police Association/Gay Officers Action League Conference in Chicago, IL. Myself, along with actress Sharon Gless from the hit TV show, Cagney Lacy, Showtime's Queer as Folk and a recent film, Hanna Free were headliners at the Palmer House speaking about A Bridge to Unity. The lecture was about bridging people together and putting down the things that divide us and reaching for the things that unite us all.

When I'm not lecturing, I enjoy filming at different events and focusing on the inspirational people within the community. You can check out the variety of films I have done with my little camera, locally and nationally by subscribing to me on YouTube.

The latest news in my life, is that I am the Executive Producer of a new documentary film that explores the 1998 gay hate murder of college student Matthew Shepard and the town of Laramie, Wyoming thirteen years later. The film focuses on hate crime legislation mixed with heartfelt interviews. The working title of the film is, Second Class Citizen: Gay Rights in a New Millennium.   Working on this film with 89-Second Productions has been life changing and exciting.  The film is still in production and we are still looking for investors and fund raising. Being this is my Director's first film and mine as well, we are taking our time to present this in its excellence.

I grew up in the small town of Imlay City, Michigan. During my college years, I worked several summers in the resort area of Petoskey, Michigan on beautiful Lake Michigan. I eventually moved there and call this my hometown.  I became a respected and loved person in the community and I truly love the area and the people. Chicago is now home for me and I  live in the East Lakeview neighborhood, near Lake Michigan. Although I like Chicago, I often travel back home to Petoskey, Michigan to reconnect with friends and the beautiful area of Northern Michigan.

• Read my article on Living my best life

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