With a BFA in Theatre from Ithaca College, Vanessa began her performing career in the Washington DC area before moving to Los Angeles where she performed improvisation and worked in TV and Film.  In 2000, Vanessa moved back east and was named the Theatre Arts Director at Oakton High School in 2006. She has directed and produced a multitude of plays, one acts and musicals. Under Vanessa’s guidance, Oakton’s theatre program reached new heights, captivating audiences and garnering acclaim from both the local community and industry professionals.  Her Theatre department has multiple award nominations culminating in The Addams Family winning the Best Musical at the inaugural Brandon Victor Dixon Awards.  Retiring from the classroom in 2022, Vanessa is now performing again most recently in the World Premiere Co-Pro of The Reservoir by Jake Brasch directed by Shelley Butler.