Serve as strategic adviser to the superintendent of schoolsProvide customized communications and public relations supportDefine, create, implement and evaluate communications strategies that build credibility and strengthen trust Provide sound guidance, strategy, writing and support to shape internal and external messages.Plan, develop and produce a wide-range of communications strategies and materials for both internal and external audiences, including but not limited to newsletters, brochures, press releases, news articles, fact sheets, presentations, special reports, calendars, voter information related to capital projects, annual budgets and unique referendums.Analyze and explain school district budgets, student testing and achievement data and/or other complex information related to school programs, policies and operations

A communications expert with nearly 20 years experience working with global corporations, emerging firms, start-ups, non-profit organizations, and schools, she designs innovative programs for her clients to heighten awareness with their key stakeholders including customers, clients, shareholders, community leaders, and government officials. Success for her clients is achieved through multi-faceted communication programs which combine a deep understanding of editorial focus, columns, beats and special sections, along with the latest social media strategies. She understands that the perfect combination of relationship building with key writers at top-tier, business and local media and a sense of ‘the story’ result coverage in key blogs, print, online, and social media as well as on network shows. She handles all facets of public relations campaigns including strategizing, press communications, media outreach, media tours, event planning and client relations. Additionally, she provides tactical counsel on corporate sponsorships, community relations, strategic philanthropy, and crisis communication issues.

Working directly with Superintendent and School Board, direct all communications District-wideDevelop and implement communication strategies regarding the management of general, proactive, and emergency communication issues and/or strategiesRespond to inquiries from the publicManage all aspects including: writing, edit, and production of newsletters, pamphlets, press releases, brochures, emails, website, other communications to District staff and communityLiaise on communications activities with Assistant Superintendents of Pupil Personnel Services, Human Resources, Finance, and CurriculumMonitor public opinion regarding particular issueManage social media and website contentMaintain master calendar of eventsInterface with local media outlets

• Working directly with Superintendent and School Board, develop a communication plan for the District• Develop and implement communication strategies regarding the management of general, proactive, and emergency communication issues and/or strategies • Respond to inquiries from the public • Manage all aspects including: writing, editing, and production of newsletters, pamphlets, press releases, brochures, emails, website, other communications to District staff and community• Monitor public opinion regarding particular issue• Manage social media and website content• Maintain master calendar of events • Interface with local media outlets

• Working directly with Superintendent and School Board, develop a communication plan for the District• Develop and implement communication strategies regarding the management of general, proactive, and emergency communication issues and/or strategies • Respond to inquiries from the public • Manage all aspects including: writing, editing, and production of newsletters, pamphlets, press releases, brochures, emails, website, other communications to District staff and community• Monitor public opinion regarding particular issue• Manage social media and website content• Maintain master calendar of events • Interface with local media outlets

Beginning with strategic analysis, Maria designed and implememnted specialized outreach programs including press communications, media outreach, media tours, advertising campaigns and social media elements. She created unique and recurring opportunities for producers, practice leaders and agency owners to serve as expert sources in relevant business articles and industry trade publications.

• Oversaw national corporate communications program (including public, internal and investor relations) from design and budget management through implementation for national insurance broker• Managed all projects and engagements with external public relations and marketing agencies• Coordinated efforts with HR, Sales & Marketing, Operations, Legal, IT and Finance Teams in the corporate headquarters to ensure consistency of corporate messaging• Managed national corporate image in the media and served as company spokesperson• Spearheaded trade, local and top tier business media relationships, speaking opportunities including briefing materials• Created and facilitated media training including preparation of speeches and executive presentations• Led issue and crisis management situations; development of content for corporate brochures and annual report including shareholder letter and external website/intranet content• Direct planning and execution of trade show initiatives/industry conferences; Liaised with business partners to identify strategic opportunities • Supervised and led all communications efforts and staff nationally

• Oversaw strategic communications program creation, development, budget and implementation to strengthen corporate positioning of foreign and domestic clients including American Express, Bear Stearns, Georgia-Pacific, Kansas City Power & Light, McKinsey, Priceline.com, USI Holdings Corporation, WorldCom/MCI and pro-bono work for Special Olympics• Generated coverage in business, trade and local and wires • Counseled clients from development of pre-IPO documents through public company operation• Managed quarterly results process: scripting, editing release, call/webcast logistics, participant follow-up• Advised and executed analyst/industry/press conferences, multiple-city roadshows and other special events • Conducted industry research including sell-side and shareholder analysis; including perception studies• Identified, researched, created and participated in new business presentations• Supervised junior staff

• Conducted investor relations account work focused primarily on micro and small-cap companies• Wrote, edited, pitched client news; created fact sheets; coordinated shareholder communications• Coordinated client, analyst, investor and media meetings and conference attendance and presentations