Della Cassia
I am a Michigan-based writer, educator, and recovering journalist who immigrated to Michigan from Lebanon at 16 to pursue my “American Dream.” I began my career as editor of my local newspaper, covering city council meetings and writing about national and local issues. The highlights of my career include interviewing actor Jeff Daniels, renowned photographer Monte Nagler, and hopeful young artists.
From journalism, I transitioned to the nonprofit sector, where I spent more than a decade as director of communications and public relations for The Engineering Society of Detroit (ESD) and Detroit Public Television (PBS).
At ESD, I wrote about Science, Technology, Engineering, and math (STEM) and led the organization’s award-winning magazine, Technology Century. While at PBS, I applied my versatile writing talent to promote the network’s shows and initiatives. My claim to fame is interviewing actress Jane Seymour, meeting the cast of This Old House, and rubbing elbows with Norman Lear and Dr. Henry Louis Gates.
Currently, I share my love of writing as an adjunct professor and a high school English and journalism teacher. I am also a freelance writer whose work has appeared in various publications, including Literary Mama and Her View from Home. I am writing a memoir about growing up in a war-torn country and my journey to America.
I earned my MA in English and Creative Writing (non-fiction) from Southern New Hampshire University, a teaching certificate from the University of Michigan, and a BA in journalism and political science from Oakland University.
I live in metro Detroit with my husband, two children, and a needy mini Bernedoodle.
When not writing, teaching, or adulting, I dream in three languages (yes, it’s a thing).
Hello, and thanks for stopping by. Grab a coffee (or whatever else you like to drink), and let's get to know each other.
I am a Michigan-based writer, educator, and reformed journalist. I immigrated to Michigan from Lebanon at 16 to pursue my "American Dream." Don't try and guess my age.
My career began in a non-air-conditioned newsroom: I honed my skills as a writer & editor at my community newspaper by wearing many hats: I wrote obituaries, and op-eds, covered late-night council meetings, wrote and edited stories, and drank a TON of coffee.
I interviewed the Great Grandniece of Thomas Edison & met Elmo: I love helping nonprofits tell their stories by turning complex ideas into engaging content. At the Engineering Society of Detroit, I created local & national media campaigns and led ESD's award-winning magazine, among other things. At PBS, I oversaw a team of eleven staff members, wrote content for all print & digital platforms, and promoted PBS programming.
My passions:
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Being a wife and mother to my two children and a fur baby
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Teaching writing to high school & college students
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Writing personal essays and working on my memoir
Fun Fact: When I am not writing, teaching, or adulting, I dream in three languages (yes, it's a thing).