Hired: June 2007
Education:
- St. Cloud State; Bachelor's Degree in Mass Communication and Business Management
- Bethel University; Master's Degree in Philosophy and Theology (Christian Thought)
Previous work:
Insurance is supposed to be boring right? I come to RMG after seven years at Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Minnesota. Product launches, crisis communications, executive communications/thought leadership, public affairs - I worked on just about everything in an industry that changes at a blistering pace under the microscope of intense regulation and public scrutiny.
Prior to Blue Cross, I worked at Bethel University, leading internal communications and media relations - including helping start its intranet. I started my career at Education Minnesota (the state's teachers union), where I helped crown the 1995 National Teacher of the Year at a White House ceremony, developed some of the most creatively inexpensive exhibits at the State Fair, and managed a newsletter competition for local teacher groups.
Specific Skills:
Communications-related: I bring the ability to make connections and build relationships/networks for organizations. I bring the ability to integrate a variety of communications and planning disciplines: working with executives and visibility plans for them; successful local and national media relations experience; broadcast experience, as well as print editing and writing; crisis communications; marketing communications; internal communications; special events planning; and my personal favorite - measurement against business objectives. Also, I have photographed weddings and can teach just about any kid to hit and throw a baseball.
Proudest moments:
The days each of my three boys were born (followed closely by the first time they could get down in a three-point stance and the first time they hit a baseball). Earning a vice president position at Risdall McKinney Public Relations is definitely a proud career moment.
Favorite candy:
There's candy here? I'm a nut for Peanut M&Ms and dark chocolate, but Reeses Peanut Butter Cups and Mounds are close behind.
Hobbies/Activities:
Finding ways to connect on a deeper level: Teaching, coaching Little League Baseball; Cub Scout den leader; biking/running; writing; Vikings Football and Twins Baseball; breaking my ankle playing basketball, softball and racquetball.
Surprise:
In 2002, I earned a master's degree in philosophy and theology from Bethel University and I periodically teach communications classes and/or ethics, logic classes at area colleges.
Big Deal:
Creating an expert spokesperson program at Blue Cross. The hospital expansion white paper alone led to substantial local and national media attention, but also led to changes in how Blue Cross does business (later changing reimbursement approaches). It generated national and local media attention, and it eventually led to legislative proposals currently being promoted by the Citizen's League. It was one of more than a half-dozen white papers that followed, helping increase Blue Cross' brand awareness and sales.