Award-winning strategic communications leader with more than 20 years of experience leading marketing and public relations planning and implementation
Proven success developing and implementing data-informed communications plans that elevate brands, invite engagement, strengthen community trust, and drive measurable resultsÂ
A trusted advisor to school district leaders, with a knack for storytelling, listening, learning, and relationship-building across districts and teams
Recognized for creative vision, collaborative leadership, exceptional writing, and a deep commitment to digital accessibility
Strategic Communications, Public Relations, and Marketing
Graphic Design: Adobe Creative Suite and Canva Pro
Storytelling, Executive Messaging, Editing, and Proofreading
Social Media Management, Content Creation, and Marketing
Newsletter & Email Marketing
Video Production
Website & CMS Management (In-Depth Understanding of WCAG 2.1)
Google Analytics & Data-Driven Decision Making
Consultant, Communications & Marketing
CESA 6 | Oshkosh, WI (2023-Present)
Serve as the senior communications strategist, director, and key advisor to administrative teams for multiple school districts and nonprofit organizations of varying size, need, and complexity
Guide leadership teams through crisis communications, sensitive community issues, transitions, and other high-stakes moments requiring clarity and calm
Direct major campaigns including enrollment marketing, operational and capital referenda, digital accessibility compliance, and districtwide culture and identity initiatives
Create high-impact stories and content for newsletters, websites, video, print, and social media, ensuring accessibility for all users
Provide team mentoring and operational support in the absence of a formal department director, strengthening team cohesion and performance during significant organizational changes
Communications Director
Kaukauna Area School District via CESA 6 (2014-2022)
Rebranded the District through storytelling, visual identity, and relationship-building, resulting in a 236% increase in 4K enrollment and a 212% increase in social media engagement
Led districtwide COVID-19 communications strategy, including operational updates, family messaging, and content architecture for microsite
Managed crisis communications, media relations, and all external and internal district communicationsÂ
Built high-trust relationships across district leaders, educators and partners
Principal | Consultant
Self-Employed/AykensInk (2006-2022)
Provided communications, marketing, brand strategy, and creative support to nonprofits, schools, and small businesses.
Marketing Communications Specialist
J. J. Keller & Associates, Inc. (2003-2009)
Directed B2B advertising program across national platforms; oversaw creative direction for 350+ annual ads
Wrote and edited 40+ news releases and trade publication articles each year
Supported corporate PR, events, and media relationships
Bachelor of Science | English
University of Wisconsin - Madison
Certificate | Business Management
University of Wisconsin Business Consortium
Eau Claire, Wisconsin