PORTFOLIO
With extensive leadership experience, I adopt a strategic and visionary perspective to tackle intricate program management and operational challenges. My strengths are in crafting impactful communication strategies and driving transformational leadership that boosts organizational performance while nurturing employee engagement.
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Below are a few examples that highlight my contributions in this field.
REBRAND OF J9
Director, Wellness & Resilience (J9)
As an executive leader for one of the largest full-time staffed sections in the organization, I successfully managed the strategic vision and goals, doubling the size and vital services of the directorate. This program expansion included skilled leadership and direction that fostered effective communication to more than 10,000 stakeholders, ensuring clarity and collaboration both internally and externally.
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PROGRAM COMMUNICATION & DIRECTION - WELLNESS INITIATIVES
Director, Wellness & Resilience (J9)
Enhancing wellness services and supported by a $5M American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) grant, I created 13 new positions and implemented a comprehensive health and wellness strategy state-wide. The program successfully facilitated 685 counseling sessions, hosted 17 training events, engaged with 72 military units, and offered numerous leadership courses, benefiting over 2,000 attendees. Together, we are fostering a healthier and supportive environment for all.
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WELLNESS COMMUNICATION STRATEGY​
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OPERATION RESILIENCE
Director, Wellness & Resilience (J9)
The effects of the pandemic had lasting effects on military members, to include an unprecedented uptick in suicides. Operation Resilience was an internal communication and education campaign focused on eliminating the stigma that getting help will hurt a person's military career. The campaign included inspirational videos of military members affected by suicide or mental health issues. The initiative offered leadership tools and resources to effectively address the issue. The multi-year campaign proved successful, with zero suicides in 2022-2023, the first zero since 2014.
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​OUTREACH VIDEO - DEALING WITH THE UNTHINKABLE (SUICIDE)
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OUTREACH VIDEO - OVERCOMING CHALLENGES (RESILIENCE)
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OPERATION RESILIENCE TOOLKIT (EX 1)
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STATEWIDE COMMUNICATION
State Public Affairs Officer
With more than 20 years of experience in communications, I achieved the highest military communication position in the state. I successfully managed statewide communications, collaborating with various agencies, including the governor's office. As the spokesperson for the 10,000 service members of the Wisconsin National Guard, I oversaw all internal and external communication programs and community relations efforts, ensuring clear and effective messaging.
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COMBAT BADGERS (MEDIA COORDINATED ARTICLE)
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115FW ASSISTS WITH MORTUARY AFFAIRS (PUBLISHED ARTICLE)
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WISCONSIN'S VOLK FIELD OFFERS CRASH RECOVERY TRAINING (PUBLISHED ARTICLE)
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My HealtheVet Implementation
Communication Specialist
I spearheaded the implementation of innovative software that empowered patients to access their medical information and communicate with healthcare teams. This successful initiative required strategic internal messaging across all departments, coupled with meticulous program management to ensure seamless integration. Additionally, I executed extensive external messaging tailored to diverse audiences, ensuring broad engagement and understanding of the new system.
CHANGE MANAGEMENT & CULTURE INITIATIVES
Director, Communication & Change Management
CoreLink was an IT company that serviced Blue Cross Blue Shield of ND and NE. The company was going through massive change and team members were struggling with trusting the organization's leadership and future vision. As a change management and communication leader, I implemented a comprehensive values rollout, internal communication campaigns, and orchestrated all philanthropy efforts.​
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CRISIS COMMUNICATION
Public Affairs Officer
During the COVID pandemic, I spearheaded daily communications and implemented social media campaigns combatting misinformation, coordinated daily news conferences and media interactions (15-30 interviews a day), reporting on military efforts and services for the public. Also led all communication efforts regarding civil disturbance (riots) that occurred during this time, including preparing leadership for media interactions. Analyzed and reported media coverage daily. I also supported communications during the F16 fighter jet crash and state natural disasters, like tornadoes and floods. ​​
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MAJ GEN KNAPP MESSAGE ABOUT COVID RESPONSE (VIDEO)
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WI GUARD CONDUCTS MOBILE TESTING AROUND THE STATE (PRESS RELEASE)
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CAPT HAWK JONES DIES IN F16 FIGHTER JET CRASH (SOCIAL MEDIA)
