Kristin Valinsky

About Kristin Valinsky

According to my parents \"do it self,\" was one of my earliest and most oft-repeated phrases. So it was no surprise that once I had a few years under my belt (and a greater command of the English language) I started my first of many businesses, an arts and culture magazine for which I served as editor in chief. Though the magazine only lasted two years, the lessons I learned continue to serve me well to this day: When it comes to building a successful business,\"do it self,\" is not an optimal strategy! I am unafraid to fail because without exception, every possibly-perceived failure propels me to greater success. Because I am unafraid of failure, I take calculated risks. I take calculated risks because I receive the greatest rewards in the wake of my most adventurous professional speculation. Taking calculated risks has taught me to also take very seriously the impact of my actions on the livelihood and well-being of those with whom I work. Being responsible for the livelihood of others has afforded me the insight that focusing on the overall health and success of the organization for which one works is the most intelligent and ethical pathway to achieving one’s career goals. I both enjoy and excel at working with people who are difficult to please. I find that those deemed prima donnas by their peers consistently produce work of the highest-caliber. I am frequently told that I am an excellent listener— an ability I find essential for effective leadership, client satisfaction and my own personal development. I know how to ask the right questions and I believe that everyone has something of value to teach. My most cherished, professional achievement is that in two separate businesses, my teammates referred to me as “the glue” holding each organization together. Specialties: project management, team building, marcom strategy, budget development, event management, market research, writing, editing, publicity, graphic design, public relations, ego-wrangling.

Experience

1. Venue Manager

   Alberta Abbey Foundation

   Sep 2022 — Present · Portland, OR, US

Education

• Hampton High School

  Diploma

  1983 — 1987

• Ohio Wesleyan University

  Course of Study: B.A. in Journalism with an Art History concentration

  1987 — 1990

• University of Pittsburgh

  Course of Study: B.A. in Communications with a Public Relations concentration

  1990 — 1992