I am a professional writer and editor with over six years of expertise in international, technological, creative and political writing fields. I offer the proven ability to provide the highest level of editorial content and technical writing within a demanding, deadline-oriented environment. I am especially well-versed in assisting non-native speakers.
Education
-Pace University School of Law
Juris Doctor, Degree in Law, Concentration in International Affairs
-Emory University
Bachelor of Arts, Degree in English, Minor in Psychology
Experience
United Nations Permanent Mission of the Republic of Korea (New York, NY)
Head Speechwriter, 2006 - Present
Write and edit speeches for delivery by Ambassadors and senior diplomats at UN Security Council, General Assembly and other meetings, ranging from issues of national security, environmental concerns, human rights, diplomatic affairs, UN financing and reform. Compose and edit articles for publication, talking points for public events, official communiqués, and correspondence. Contribute to foreign policy discussion sessions. Research issues of political affairs, international security and governmental developments.
Gramercy Creative, Inc. (New York, NY)
Freelance Writer, 2007 - Present
Compose advocacy letters on behalf of prominent artists to procure residency approval from U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services. Work closely with international clients to produce desired editorial work by assessing linguistic deficiencies and guiding final work product. Edit, collect and research information regarding recipients’ professional background for use in official applications. Liaise between artists and citizenship sponsors to aid in naturalization process.
Veridian Carbon (New York, NY and Jakarta, Indonesia)
Freelance Copywriter, 2006 - 2008
Produced marketing copy used at the 2007 Kyoto Conference and generated editorial content for use in client solicitation. Created company slogan and consulted on overall design aesthetic. Composed correspondence with Indonesian political officials. Implemented editorial strategy for business development of environmental organizations.
Frank Williams and Partners (New York, NY)
Technical Writer, 2006 - 2007
Created promotional copy and oversaw editorial work from conception to completion. Drafted correspondence with city commissions and local agencies. Worked closely with Frank Williams to generate creative content for upcoming biography. Monitored manuscript production with book publisher. Drafted copy for entrance in international design competitions. Composed press releases for media distribution. Developed style guide for company-wide use.
United Nations International Tribunal for the Former Yugoslavia
The Hague, The Netherlands
Trial Chamber Associate, 2006
Wrote court briefs for review by trial chamber judges. Edited provisional bylaws and proposed judgments. Worked with chief judge and associates on press material concerning the proceedings. Co-chaired international associates program. Researched international law under the Geneva Convention and human rights provisions.
Off the Leash Productions (New York, NY)
Copywriter, 2005 - 2006
Oversaw copywriting responsibilities for client accounts. Generated marketing copy while developing relationships with clients to create targeted advertising campaigns. Devised user feedback system to collect data for future branding.
John Edwards Presidential Campaign (Atlanta, GA)
Speechwriter, 2003 - 2004
Composed speeches for public debate events and private development meetings. Wrote talking points memoranda for campaign staff and press department. Generated copy for position articles addressing the Senator’s stance on political issues. Edited online content, oversaw the circulation of constituent updates, and assisted with staff correspondence.
Max Cleland Congressional Campaign (Atlanta, GA)
Press Assistant, 2001 - 2002
Composed press releases, campaign materials and editorial pieces for regional media outlets. Organized debate events and junior staff strategy meetings. Coordinated field office procedures for voter outreach and constituent contact. Designed community-wide town hall assemblies accommodating over 500 individuals.
Astral Brands (Atlanta, GA)
Copywriting Intern, 2000 - 2001
Generated copy for marketing clients. Edited internal documents and industry newsletters. Researched demographic data and collected client responses. Provided editorial content for use in international advertising campaigns.
Visions International Service Organization (Virgin Gorda, British Virgin Islands)
Construction Laborer, 2000
De-wormed local goat population by hand. Designed, constructed and erected homes for low-income families. Refurbished schools via demolition and remodeling. Cleared island roads for trade and transport.
The Press Journal (Vero Beach, FL)
Editorial Assistant, 1997 - 1999
Drafted local news reports and generated content ideas for publication. Edited drafts of page layout designs. Researched, proofread, and fact checked articles. Ensured compliance with editorial standards.
Professional Skills
Copywriting and Editing:
Wrote public event speeches and press releases. Wrote, developed, and edited promotional materials for clients spanning the architectural, political, non-profit, and public affairs fields. Oversaw correspondence with government agencies, philanthropic institutions, and community groups. Contributed and edited chapters to upcoming book on Frank Williams.
Technical and Advocacy Writing:
Created style manuals, newsletters, corporate updates and provisional bylaws for internal business use. Drafted opinion pieces for media distribution. Composed legal memorandum and briefs. Worked closely with clients to tailor editorial content for target audience. Monitored user feedback and community involvement to refine demographic reach.
Online Content Production:
Contributed to numerous websites with extensive readerships. Maintained business websites and oversaw the addition of online content and design initiatives. Edited layout, supervised redesign, and monitored comment permissions.
Memberships
United Nations Society of Writers (New York, NY)
P.E.N. International, World Association of Writers (New York, NY)
Education degree
BA, J.D.
Major specialization
English
Second specialization
Psychology
First language
English
Areas of specialization
Not selected
Work experience
Present Occupation: Head Speechwriter at the United Nations Permanent Mission to the Republic of Korea
MarissaMarissa is not available at this time.
