Growing Up in the Biz

After 40 years in this business — beginning as an account coordinator whose job was to drive between an agency and a type shop on Spenard to pick up typeset print and brochure paste-ups — it’s remarkable to see how far our industry has come. From wax rollers and layout boards to analytics dashboards and AI-driven campaigns, the way we create and communicate has been completely transformed. Today, strategy, storytelling, and digital engagement intersect at lightning speed.  Now it’s time to take the next big step.

Alaska’s leading creative and strategic communications firm is being acquired by the state’s premier digital media company, Mosaic Media. Together, we’ll unite under one roof — two powerhouse teams blending advertising, PR, design, and digital expertise to deliver bold ideas and measurable results. This partnership positions us to become a truly digital-first, full-service creative agency — one that can concept, code, design, and deploy across every channel.

As a business owner, your company becomes your baby. Over the past 30 years of growing this firm, there were times when its needs came before those of my own family. This journey would not have been possible without the unwavering love, patience, and support of my husband and children. They’ve been my foundation through every late night, big pitch, and campaign launch — and I share this accomplishment with them. Today, that “baby” is stepping into its next big chapter, and I couldn’t be prouder.

Continuity is what every founder hopes for — to know you’ve built something that will thrive long after you step aside. I’m confident this team will not only carry on our legacy but elevate it with fresh energy, new platforms, and next-generation strategy. I’ve taken the firm as far as I can; now, our President and the new ownership will lead it forward with a deeper media bench and expanded digital capabilities to support our trusted account, PR, and creative teams.

Looking back over our history, even our slogans tell the story of our evolution. What began in 1995, with my first business license for “Marketing Solutions: Turning Ideas into Action,” became “Our name says it all — Marketing. Strategy. Interactive.” when we added web development and digital strategy in the early 2000s. Today, our motto “Out-of-the-park creative, every day, every client” defines who we are — an agency that delivers fresh thinking, data-driven insights, and work that breaks through the noise. It reflects our values, guides our actions, and represents our promise to every client we serve.

Along the way, colleagues became family and clients became friends. When asked if I’ll miss the agency, the honest answer is yes — but what I’ll miss most are the people who made it so special. Still, I know it’s time for new energy, new ideas, and new leadership to take us forward. I’m honored to stay on board for the next year, gradually transitioning into the role of proud “agency mom.”

Mosaic Media is the perfect partner to usher in the next generation of digital media innovation and AI-driven communications. Our President, Kris Miller, is exactly the right leader to guide this transition, and we are so fortunate to have her at the helm. Our campaign, strategy, and creative teams are ready for national accounts — it’s what they’ve been preparing for all along.

Before I close, I must acknowledge someone whose presence we deeply miss — our dear friend and former VP/Creative Director, Jim Coe. Jim passed a year ago, but his spirit and creativity continue to inspire us every day. His legacy lives on in every brainstorm, every headline, and every piece of good work we produce. God rest his soul.

To our clients — thank you for your trust, your partnership, and your belief in us.

To our team — thank you for your passion, for hitting it out of the park every day, and for bringing your A-game to every brief.

To MSI alumni — so many bright young minds have contributed to this agency’s story. You are celebrated today, too.

I am immensely proud of what we’ve built — and even more excited to see what comes next. 

With pride and gratitude,

Founder