You may not know

Ballis is a regular contributor to "The Rachel Ray Show," where she's dispensed advice on such topics as gift wrapping, do-it-yourself window treatments and creating a fun party table for kids.

Stacey Ballis '92

Author and consultant  
Dayton Associates Consulting Group
Chicago

Major
English literature and American studies

Favorite class
Jerry Cohen’s Conspiracy in America.

Favorite hangout
Student events office.

Best memory
A perfect night of fireworks for Bronstein Weekend, surrounded by friends, and feeling completely connected to the community we had created.

Brandeisian(s) who most influenced your life
Olga Broumas (professor of the practice of English and American literature), who taught me to stop playing with words and to start actually writing.

How do you stay connected to Brandeis today?
One of my closest friends from Brandeis, Rob Silk, is now working in the development office, so I keep up-to-date through him. The Pritzker family in Chicago hosts a wonderful evening every fall that I never miss as a way to catch up with local alumni.