Resume

WORK HISTORY OVERVIEW

I am a strategic communications leader with more than 20 years of experience in public information, media relations and government communications. I have a proven ability to serve as a spokesperson, advise senior leadership and manage crisis communications. I am skilled at building trusted relationships with the media, government officials and partners. I specialize in editorial strategy, digital content creation and team leadership.

EDUCATION

  • M.S., Public Arts Administration (Media Management)
  • B.A., Journalism & Communications (Video Production)

CORE SKILLS

  • Strategic Communications & Media Relations
  • Writing, Editing & Executive Communications
  • Crisis Communication & Public Spokesperson
  • Government & Legislative Communications
  • Team Leadership, Mentoring & Training
  • Digital Content Creation, Social Media Strategy
  • Adobe Creative Suite, Web Analytics, CMS Management
  • Coalition Building Between Local, State & Federal Partners & Community Outreach

PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE

Oregon Department of Emergency Management (OEM)
(May 2024 – present)

Public Information Officer (PAS3)

  • Served as a primary spokesperson to media outlets during emergencies, coordinating messaging with the Governor’s Office and partner agencies.
  • Directed Joint Information Center/System operations and crisis communication strategies.
  • Developed communications policies, plans, FAQs, fact sheets & newsletters for statewide audiences.
  • Built collaborative relationships with state, local, tribal and federal agencies.
  • Managed misinformation correction and digital communication strategies across web and social platforms.
  • Advised and coordinated communications about rapid federal changes to grants & policy.

Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW)
(rotation: Sept. 2023 – April 2024)

Deputy Administrator, Information & Education Division (Comms Manager 2)

  • Led division communications strategy, modernized CMS systems, and initiated bilingual communications planning.
  • Mentored staff, rebuilt morale, implemented SMART goals and regular feedback processes.
  • Developed strategic communications toolkit and coordinated training opportunities.
  • Directed media analytics reporting and advised on sensitive communication issues.

Department of Early Learning and Care (DELC)
(Sep. 2021 – May 2025)

Electronic Publishing Design Specialist 2 (SRR2)

  • Led brand launch and website redesign, increasing public engagement and accessibility.
  • Designed bilingual publications and promotional materials for community partners.
  • Managed intranet policy and content processes, improving internal communications.
  • Coordinated legislative session tracking and COVID-related communications.

OnTarget Spray
(Jan. 2021 – Aug. 2021)

Director of Marketing and Communications

  • Established foundational strategy, structure and workflow systems.
  • Increased organic social media engagement and followers by 30% in six months.
  • Created lead generation streams through social media and Google Ads.
  • Generated 120 original leads in three months.
  • Updated the company’s visual brand identity.
  • Oversaw website redesign and increased web traffic by 20%.

University of Oregon – School of Music and Dance
(Aug. 2012 – Jan. 2021)

Communications Editor

  • Advised deans and faculty on communications strategy and public safety messaging.
  • Drafted speeches, articles and executive communications for internal & external audiences.
  • Managed website content, social media platforms and promotional campaigns.
  • Produced editorial content, videos and photography.
  • Supervised student personnel and coordinated event communications.

Salem Multicultural Institute
(April 2008 – Aug. 2012)

Program Coordinator & Gallery Curator

  • Established dragon boat club and policies and coordinated large-scale cultural events.
  • Designed and executed gallery exhibits and promotional campaigns.
  • Managed volunteers, budgets and event logistics.

Polk County Itemizer Observer
(July 2004 – April 2008)

Community Reporter/Photographer

  • Produced one-third of weekly newspaper content.
  • Won Oregon Newspaper Publishers Association Best Feature Writing Award (2008).