Merrilyn Lewis

BIOGRAPHY

Merrilyn brings a unique blend of experience to her work as a seasoned communications coach.

A graduate of the University of Southern Maine, Merrilyn survived fourteen years of teaching English to junior and senior high students, where she developed infinite patience. Always eager to help others learn, Merrilyn has also instructed swimming, life-saving, cross-country skiing, CPR, first aid, and coached sports.

Transitioning to the business world, Merrilyn worked as a publicist for Renovator’s Supply, a national mail-order company specializing in restoration hardware. She further honed her skills as marketing and public relations director for Sandri, Inc., a diversified company which owned a gasoline and fuel oil distributorship, championship golf course, a floral and gift shop, a travel agency, and a restaurant. In executing her responsibilities, she gained invaluable experience in advertising strategies, copy writing, voiceover work, and promotional video production.

As senior publicist for Lisa Ekus Public Relations Company, a national public relations firm, Merrilyn planned and coordinated publicity tours. Additionally, she media trained clients for local, regional, and national television, cable, radio, and print interviews. Currently, she works in the Advancement Office at Smith College, where she also teaches training and development workshops and guest lectures in engineering and architecture classes.

Always interested in community involvement, Merrilyn volunteers as Community Mediator, serves on a Restorative Probation Community Board, participates in a Community Crisis Response Team, and delivers Meals on Wheels on a weekly basis.