Dynamic Public Affairs Director with extensive experience at Contra Costa Mosquito and Vector Control District, specializing in strategic communications and community engagement. Proven track record in developing impactful messaging strategies and fostering collaboration. Skilled in media relations and public speaking, enhancing organizational visibility and stakeholder involvement.
Overview
37
37
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Public Affairs Director
Contra Costa Mosquito and Vector Control District
Concord, CA
07.2018 - Current
Received training from the Public Relations Society of America in Misinformation to Action: Defending Against Misinformation, Five Ways To Simplify Messages, and Using Citizen Engagement to Improve the Experience.
Developed and implemented public communication strategies to enhance community engagement.
Trained and mentored staff on effective messaging techniques and community outreach practices.
Analyzed community feedback to refine public outreach programs, improving overall effectiveness and reach.
Established partnerships with local organizations to expand program visibility and stakeholder involvement in vector control efforts.
Oversaw the development of online content aimed at educating the public about mosquito prevention strategies and resources.
Worked with government members and their staff members on legislative initiatives affecting the organization''s interests, sharing tailored messaging.
Collaborated with cross-functional teams to ensure consistent messaging across all communication platforms.
Monitored competitor activity to stay informed on emerging issues that could affect the organization's outreach efforts.
Served as spokesperson for the organization, representing the District at industry events and in media interviews.
Developed targeted messaging strategies for diverse stakeholder groups, ensuring relevance and understanding across audiences.
Built relationships with key stakeholders to foster collaboration and promote organizational goals.
Led a team of communication professionals, providing guidance and mentoring to foster professional growth and ensure consistent high-quality work output.
Reviewed marketing materials and documents for brand accuracy and trending design.
Developed and promoted the District's brand, images and identity to news media and public.
Authored fresh and engaging press releases and prepared for news media interaction.
News Reporter
KPIX-TV
03.1999 - 06.2006
Investigated and reported breaking news stories, providing accurate and timely information to viewers.
Conducted interviews with key stakeholders, enhancing story depth and viewer engagement.
News Reporter and Anchor
WNCNTV
Raleigh, NC
07.1995 - 01.1999
As a political reporter, I conducted interviews with key stakeholders, including at the time, Governor Jim Hunt, providing accurate and timely information to viewers while enhancing viewer engagement.
As a News Anchor, I delivered live news broadcasts, ensuring clarity and accuracy in high-pressure environments.
News Reporter, and Weekend News Anchor
WSLSTV
Roanoke, VA
09.1991 - 07.1995
Wrote, shot video interviews and general video, edited television news stories for daily news segments, ensuring clarity and accuracy.
Delivered accurate and engaging news segments to audiences, enhancing viewer retention.
Producer, News Reporter, and Anchor
WDTV-TV
Clarksburg, WV
01.1990 - 09.1991
Started as a producer for the late newscast
Assisted in coordinating content and story scheduling for television news segments.
Was promoted to a news reporter and a weekend news anchor
Researched and reported on breaking news stories to ensure timely dissemination of information.
Conducted interviews with local officials and residents to gather diverse perspectives for news coverage.
Delivered live news broadcasts, ensuring clarity and engagement for diverse audiences.
Community Affairs Representative
Contra Costa Mosquito and Vector Control District
Concord, CA
07.2006 - 2018
Educated community on mosquito prevention and vector control strategies.
Collaborated with local agencies to enhance public health initiatives.
Participated in outreach programs, increasing community engagement and awareness significantly.
Education
Bachelor of Arts - Television Journalism
San Diego State University
San Diego, CA
05.1989
Skills
Message development and content creation
Communication Planning
Written Communication
Costumer Engagement
Community outreach
Event Planning
Government relations
Media relations
Press release writing
Spokesperson Experience
Public Speaking
Professionalism
Teamwork and collaboration
Active Listening
Self motivation
Organizational skills
Certification
Certified by the California Department of Public Health in Vector Control. Gold card holder since 2018.
Certified in Using Citizen Engagement to Improve the Experience by PRSA in 2021
Certified in Driving Change Through Internal Communication by PRSA in 2023
Sr. National Public Affairs and Marketing Director at USDA Rural DevelopmentSr. National Public Affairs and Marketing Director at USDA Rural Development
Director of Public Affairs at United States Army, Joint Special Operations CommaDirector of Public Affairs at United States Army, Joint Special Operations Comma