Executive Unplugged: Stephanie Edwards, Community Liaison

We wanted to give Editors Toronto members, including student affiliates, another way to get to know their executive committee members, while also finding out what is involved in being on the committee. So, we asked executive committee members to introduce themselves and their roles by answering a few questions for our “Executive Unplugged” series.

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Meet Stephanie Edwards, Community Liaison.

Stephanie has planned our branch events and contributed to other Editors Toronto initiatives since the 2023-24 season. Stephanie owns the blog Fitness and Fluff Stuff, where she writes about all things fitness, health, and wellness. Among many things, she loves to learn and explore and is passionate about undertaking creative assignments.

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What kind of editor are you? Tell us a bit about your experience.

I have broad editing experience from copy to style to structural and proofreading. Most of my work has been editing business and professional communication materials. I became further immersed in the field after earning a Double Honours Bachelor of Arts in communications and French studies from York University. I also hold certificates from other accredited academic institutions. To stay on top of developments in the industry, I attend workshops and courses, and get involved through discussions, volunteering, and participating in other initiatives.

What’s your favourite part of your role on the executive committee (or the “exec,” as we call it)?

I appreciate being able to independently brainstorm ideas and present them to the team for approval. Planning, organizing, and managing projects is my forte. I like seeing my creative projects come to life. My main one to date is that I planned, organized, and facilitated our branch’s first interactive book review in the form of a “book chat.” I also like to review, provide feedback on, and draft writing material. 

Give us an elevator pitch for your role.

If you want to combine your passion for communications, writing, and editing, while exploring and selecting events and venues for the editing community, this is the perfect role for you. You will expand your knowledge in editing and related subjects while interacting with a network of people from diverse academic and professional backgrounds who share common interests. Whether you are a beginner or highly experienced, there is always something new to learn or share. I recommend this role to anyone whose ears light up to the sound of my pitch.  

What’s your favourite part of an exec meeting?

It’s refreshing when we check in to share ideas and information about our current and future projects. It is a pleasure to collaborate with passionate, like-minded people in the industry. I can realize my ideas and help others realize theirs.

Aside from being a community liaison, which other executive role would you choose?

I am skilled in a few of the current roles on the executive team. However, if I had to choose again, I would choose what I am doing now. It allows me to hone my skills in areas I value, such as creativity, writing, planning, and collaboration. But seeing how this is my second year choosing this role, I guess I’ve already held true to my choice.

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This article was copy edited by Andi Benjamin, MA, JD, a legal editor and proofreader, based in Toronto. She is the owner of AB Edits.