NEW YORK, USA // At age 5, Valerie modeled for her grandfather’s polka album covers. At age 9, she hand-lettered the covers of school reports. At age 13, she hand-painted signs for local businesses. And so began her love story with design.

Valerie’s career began by bringing her back to her roots: music and design. Starting in the music industry after graduating from SVA, where she later taught design and typography, Valerie created countless album covers for artists ranging from Mick Jagger to Matchbox 20 to Rihanna. Every album cover starts with a brief (even if only written on a cocktail napkin) and the experience of concepting, collaborating, and creating impactful artwork served her well as she transitioned from the music industry into advertising.

For the past 12 years she has been conceiving and launching national and global campaigns—often in the blink of an eye—for clients such as AstraZeneca, Bayer, Celgene, Gilead, Novartis, and Pfizer. At GSW New York, Valerie brings her passion for grounding ideas in strategy, executing beautifully, building and inspiring teams, leading authentically, and thinking big-picture while keeping an eye on the details. All done with a Midwestern work ethic.

Design is in her blood and the love story continues every day.