Resume & Curriculum Vitae 

EXECUTIVE LEADER IN STRATEGIC COMMUNICATIONS & BRAND MANAGEMENT

Strategic, data-driven communications executive with 20+ years of leadership experience advancing the missions of higher education, healthcare, and corporate organizations through transformational marketing and public relations. As Director of Communication and Public Information Officer (PIO) for Northland Pioneer College and serving on the President’s Cabinet, I lead comprehensive strategies that define the institution’s public image, strengthen community and government relations, and drive enrollment growth across a rural service district of 21,000 square miles.

Known for integrating analytics, brand storytelling, and digital innovation to align marketing initiatives with organizational goals, I build high-performing teams and cross-departmental systems that elevate institutional reputation, strengthen stakeholder trust, and deliver measurable results.

EDUCATION

Master of Arts, Communication
Eastern New Mexico University – Portales, NM | 2023
Emphasis: Marketing & Public Relations Management

Bachelor of Science, Communication
University of Wisconsin – Eau Claire, WI | 2001
Emphasis: Electronic Media • Minor: Mathematics

PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE

Northland Pioneer College – Navajo & Apache Counties, AZ
Director of Communication/Communications Officer (President’s Cabinet) | July 2022 – Present

As a member of the President’s Cabinet and the college’s official Public Information Officer (PIO), I provide executive leadership and strategic oversight for all marketing, branding, and communication functions across the institution.

Strategic & Executive Leadership

•  Advise the President and Board of Governors on public relations, media strategy, and crisis communication.

•  Direct institutional communication strategy, reputation management, and brand alignment across all campuses and departments.

• Lead internal and external messaging for major initiatives including new bachelor’s degree programs, workforce development campaigns, and legislative engagement.

Marketing & Digital Engagement

• Oversaw complete modernization of digital platforms and brand presence, achieving double- and triple-digit growth in website traffic and social media engagement.

• Developed and implemented annual communication plans aligned with the college’s strategic priorities and accreditation standards.

• Manage cross-functional marketing operations supporting enrollment, recruitment, and community partnerships.

Organizational Communication & Change Management

• Led implementation and ongoing management of the college’s internal communication platform (SharePoint).

• Partner with Institutional Effectiveness to align communication strategies with data analytics, student outcomes, and key performance indicators.

• Mentor and supervise a professional team responsible for digital marketing, publications, design, and media engagement.

Fiscal Management

• Administer departmental budget and vendor contracts, optimizing resources to achieve strategic goals and maintain compliance.

Founder & Principal Consultant | Ranch Hand Marketing | 2020 – Present

• Provide communications consulting and full-service digital marketing for nonprofits, entrepreneurs, and educational institutions.

• Design integrated campaigns aligned with client goals using SEO, PPC, email, and social media strategies.

• Deliver branding, website design, and training tailored to rural and underserved markets.

Northland Pioneer College  – Navajo & Apache Counties, AZ
Community & Corporate Learning | 2020 – 2022

• Created and managed an online registration platform (Xenegrade) and launched hybrid learning programs, increasing enrollment and participation by over 100% during COVID-19 restrictions.

• Developed marketing collateral, course catalogs, and promotional campaigns to support community and workforce development.

• Built partnerships with chambers of commerce and regional businesses to expand non-credit training and community impact.

Blossom Digital Marketing - Show Low, AZ
Digital Marketing Strategist| 2019- 2020

• Designed and executed multimedia marketing campaigns for businesses across Arizona, including Google Display, YouTube, and social platforms.

• Managed social media reputation and analytics, achieving consistent audience growth and measurable ROI.

Marshfield Medical Center – Ladysmith, WI
Community Relations & Marketing Manager | 2017 – 2019

• Directed regional marketing and community relations for a major healthcare system, managing a $250K annual budget.

• Co-authored the Community Health Needs Assessment (2018) and Health Improvement Plan in partnership with the Department of Public Health.

• Served as liaison to government officials and media outlets on healthcare advocacy and policy issues.

Dove Healthcare – Chippewa Valley, WI
Employment Marketing Manager | 2016 – 2017

• Developed innovative recruitment marketing strategies across multiple facilities; increased applicant engagement significantly.

• Built partnerships with technical colleges and workforce programs.

Cornell Area Care Center – Cornell, WI
Manager of Market Development | 2013 – 2016

• Oversaw marketing, fundraising, and public engagement for senior care services; secured grants and industry recognition.

• Co-authored AHCA Gold Award-winning application.

Menards, Inc. – Eau Claire, WI
Advertising Production Manager | 2002 – 2013

• Directed national broadcast production for 500+ TV and 200+ radio spots annually.

• Managed the $64M Share Builder loyalty campaign and ensured brand alignment across media.