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Advancing Healthcare Innovation
Building Public Trust Around Critical Infrastructure
Building Public Trust Around Critical Infrastructure
Abbott | Strategic Communications, Executive Counsel & Media Relations
The challenge
Effectively communicating the significance of complex diagnostic technologies to resonate with healthcare professionals, journalists, industry stakeholders, and the broader public is a pressing challenge that involves proactive community relations.
My approach
I developed strategic communications initiatives that translated scientific innovation into accessible and compelling stories, focusing on public engagement. By collaborating with business leadership and cross-functional partners, I identified opportunities, managed reputational considerations, and connected product innovation to real-world healthcare needs. An exemplary initiative was the partnership between Abbott and MotoAmerica, which enhanced crisis management by introducing rapid blood testing for concussion evaluation into professional motorcycle racing.
The impact
These efforts generated substantial national media visibility and elevated awareness of Abbott's diagnostic innovation. The work significantly contributed to recognition by leading media and industry organizations and earned an Abbott Point of Care Platinum Award.
Building Public Trust Around Critical Infrastructure
Building Public Trust Around Critical Infrastructure
Building Public Trust Around Critical Infrastructure
Harris County Flood Control District | Communications Leadership & Community Engagement
The challenge
Helping residents, elected officials, and community stakeholders understand complex flood risk reduction initiatives, infrastructure investments, and project decisions that directly affect their communities. This necessitated strong community relations.
My approach
Led a 12-person communications team responsible for media relations, public affairs, employee communications, digital communications, and public engagement. Provided executive counsel to leadership on communications related to a $5 billion bond program, intricate infrastructure projects, community concerns, and crisis management during severe weather events. Focused on making technical information understandable, fostering meaningful engagement opportunities, and ensuring strategic communications reflected the organization’s responsibility to the public.
The impact
Strengthened coordination across communications functions, supported transparent public engagement, and enabled the organization to effectively communicate complex infrastructure priorities to diverse audiences.
Leading Communications Through Crisis and Change
City of Pearland | Executive Counsel, Crisis Management & Public Engagement
The challenge
Effectively communicating and maintaining public confidence during major emergencies, while navigating the evolving needs of a growing city.
My approach
As Director of Communications, I collaborated closely with city leadership and department heads to enhance community relations and manage public information, strategic communications, media relations, digital communications, and community engagement. I led crisis management communications during Hurricane Harvey and other significant incidents, translating operational information into timely, accessible guidance for residents. Additionally, I spearheaded efforts to modernize broader communications, focusing on digital platforms, brand consistency, and impactful public engagement initiatives.
The impact
These efforts helped to significantly strengthen the city’s communications capabilities and enhance public engagement. The department garnered recognition as the Government Communications Team of the Year, and my leadership was honored with PRSA Houston’s Public Relations Professional of the Year award.
Connecting Business Priorities With Community Impact
Kroger | Corporate Affairs & Community Relations
The challenge
Strengthening corporate reputation and community relations while navigating a large and diverse regional operating footprint.
My approach
Led regional corporate affairs initiatives focused on crisis management, media relations, and strategic communications. This included executive counsel on community partnerships and enhancing public engagement across Greater Houston, Southeast Texas, and Southwest Louisiana. Collaborated closely with nonprofit organizations, civic leaders, and business partners to ensure community investment aligned with meaningful local needs.
The impact
Facilitated approximately $3 million in annual community investment, significantly enhancing relationships between the business and the communities it served.