Intro
What drives me as a professional
In my 20+ years working in communications, I have been responsible for managing and conveying comprehensive communication plans utilizing many media outlets. I rely on my strong project management and leadership skills to ensure timely, positive outcomes to organizational goals. I have directed both internal and external communication initiatives designed to engage employees, public audiences, and policymakers.
Core Expertise
Communication is king
01
Strategic Communications
With the ability to lead and execute strategic improvement initiatives, I excel at finding new opportunities for business development.
02
Media Relations
With a degree in broadcast news and 20 years of media relations experience, I thoroughly understand how these channels operate; therefore, I can manage and work with the media to help ensure positive outcomes.
03
Project Management
I am experienced in developing comprehensive communication plans that ensure project and campaign deliverables are met.
04
Budget Management
I manage the budget and other financial measures of the communications department to achieve fiscal responsibility.
05
Executive Communications
I enjoy collaborating with staff, clients, and vendors at all professional levels. I pride myself on developing trusting and lasting relationships.
06
Public Relations
I always work to be alert of social risks that could impact the business or attract media inquiries and work with leadership to develop a plan to mitigate any issues that may arise.
Other Skills
Additional experience
07
Marketing Strategy
08
Event Planning
09
Brand Promotion
10
Public Speaking
11
Social Media Marketing
12
Fundraising Management
13
Web Content Management
14
Vocus GR Software
Writing Samples
Writing for Success
01
Press Release
02
Executive Bulletin
03
Grassroots Guide
04
Political Action Toolkit
Experience
20+ years of what matters
2023 – 2024
John Ritter Foundation for Aortic Health
Director of Communications
Los Angeles, CA (Remote)
- Served as primary contact for all media inquiries
- Responsible for the development of national satellite media tour
- Developed press releases and PSAs for all events
- Directed all internal and external communications
- Directed media efforts and planning for fundraising events and activities
- Project manager for the development of a new mission-driven website
- Responsible for the development and posting of all social media
- Organized activities for Aortic Dissection Awareness Week
- Created a fundraising toolkit to enhance fundraising efforts
- Project manager in the creation of annual reports
- Developed monthly newsletters distributed by mass mail to all supporters
2005 – 2022
West Virginia Hospital Association
Director, Communications & Grassroots Advocacy
Charleston, WV
- Directed all internal and external communications
- Promoted member hospitals utilizing a comprehensive communications plan
- Conducted ongoing communication audits and assessments
- Directed branding efforts to ensure reputation and personality
- Organized all media campaigns, including the negotiation and placement of broadcast media
- Served as primary contact for all media inquiries
- Corresponded with media entities and vendors to identify promotional opportunities
- Managed accounts, department goals, and budgets
- Served as primary coordinator of website and social media platforms
- Organized all virtual and in-person activities for Legislative Advocacy Week
- Facilitated fundraising activities for political action committee
- Coordinated required compliance with both federal and state agencies
2002 – 2005
Elite Health Care, Inc.
Human Resources & Marketing Director
Nitro, WV
- Arranged and conducted prospective employee interviews
- Conducted all new employee orientation and training sessions
- Acted as a liaison to employees for agency owners and administrator
- Maintained employee files in compliance with state and federal regulations
- Corresponded with insurance companies regarding agency benefits
- Responsible for marketing company services in 13 West Virginia counties
- Directed new marketing awareness campaign, including corporate collateral and promotional materials
- Increased client census to highest levels in company history
2001 – 2002
Ramada Plaza Hotel
Event Planner
South Charleston, WV
- Responsible for in-house sales and marketing
- Worked with clients and hotel staff to plan and organize all aspects of hotel events
Education
Let's Go Mountaineers!
Class of 2001
West Virginia University
Bachelor of Science, Journalism, Broadcast News
Morgantown, WV
During my time at West Virginia University, I was an anchor and field reporter for WVU News. In addition, I worked as a student intern for Student Support Services, a federally funded TRIO grant program that provides students with individualized tutoring, academic advising, financial aid assistance, and other services.
Community Involvement
Happy times
President, Hurricane Show Choir Boosters
Hurricane High School
Hurricane, WV
Chair, First Baptist Academy School Board
First Baptist Church of Hurricane
Hurricane, WV
Volunteer
Turtle Trackers Association
Hilton Head Island, SC