Columbus, Ohio, United States
I lead reputation strategy, issues management, and strategic communications for a major public institution, operating at the intersection of leadership, media, and community. As Community Relations Chief for the City of Columbus Recreation and Parks Department, I advise senior leadership on high-impact and sensitive matters, shaping messaging that protects public trust and aligns with organizational and revenue priorities. My work spans corporate communications, public relations, marketing, and fundraising, driving strategic partnerships, increasing donor investment, and strengthening stakeholder engagement to support long-term sustainability and measurable impact.
As Community Relations Chief for the Columbus Recreation and Parks Department, I lead reputation, communications, media relations, and stakeholder strategy, and serve as department spokesperson across marketing, communications, and development functions. I advise leadership on high-impact and sensitive issues, driving integrated strategies that strengthen public trust, elevate brand visibility, and align communications with revenue generation. My work connects marketing and communications with fundraising performance, leading donor cultivation, corporate partnerships, sponsorship development, and volunteer engagement. Through strategic storytelling and cross-sector collaboration, I mobilize support, deepen stakeholder alignment, and expand resources to support long-term sustainability.
• Established a strong culture of philanthropy within the Columbus Urban League. • Led fundraising and investment strategies to support the organization's mission. • Oversaw donor relations, volunteerism, and events to enhance community engagement. • Developed fundraising campaigns and cause-marketing efforts to secure corporate sponsorships and major gifts.
• Directed the launch and management of the shelter housing program, ensuring alignment with community needs. • Developed and oversaw fundraising campaigns, focusing on both capital and program initiatives. • Successfully secured $800K in grant funding through strategic writing and relationship management. • Acted as a liaison to federal and state agencies on human trafficking issues, advocating for policy changes.
• Defined and implemented strategic marketing objectives for 32 federally funded corporations based on thorough market research. • Managed grant requests, successfully securing $2.5MM in program funding to support initiatives. • Oversaw the launch of a federal housing program, ensuring effective execution from inception to completion.