When Experience Matter

As a Mar/Com leader with a proven track record in marketing, communications, and organizational effectiveness, I bring a wealth of experience in brand development, media crisis management, business development, and community engagement.

I have consistently driven brand transformation through strategic marketing and communications plans, aligning them with organizational objectives to foster growth. With extensive experience across both private and public sectors, I have successfully led initiatives to promote and expand businesses, increasing brand awareness through cohesive messaging.

My expertise includes advanced organizational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to manage multiple priorities effectively. I excel in problem-solving, decision-making, and communication, and I am fluent in both English and Spanish.

I have contributed to the success of organizations like Dow Chemical, Houston Community College, City of Austin Water Utility, and Cox Communications, showcasing my versatility across industries. My commitment to delivering exceptional results and exceeding expectations remains at the core of my professional ethos.

Winning Strategies

I led a team at Houston Community College that developed an innovative student-centered marketing program, doubling student enrollment from 49,000 to 100,000. I also introduced a comprehensive strategic digital and marketing plan that was instrumental in securing the passage of three annexations and a $425 million bond referendum. Our team was pivotal in achieving overwhelming voter approval for these initiatives. The educational engagement plan we implemented featured a media strategy that seamlessly integrated branding, community outreach, digital marketing, social media, and media relations.

Impactful Initiatives

Digital marketing is vital in today's landscape, but it can't fully replace the power of a strong physical brand presence. A truly effective integrated marketing strategy harnesses the strengths of both, engaging stakeholders through strategic public and government affairs initiatives. I have a proven track record of defining and executing award-winning community engagement programs. Among my key accomplishments are:

• Dallas Independent School District (DISD) Adopt-A-School Program:** Expanded this initiative into a Super Neighborhood Adoption program, which garnered millions in funding and in-kind donations from the corporate community.

• Founder of the East Texas Hispanic Business Forum:** Pioneered a platform that enabled small Hispanic businesses to secure procurement opportunities and partnerships with mainstream enterprises.

• Jobs for Houston Television Program: Produced an Ava award-winning show that raised awareness of high-demand workforce programs, driving community engagement and education.

• HCC Minority Male Initiative: Led the development of a program that raised over $5 million for the HCC Foundation, significantly increasing the enrollment of minority males in higher education.

• HCC Foundation's Opportunity 14 Marketing Campaigns: Developed and executed campaigns that resulted in a $30 million endowment from the McGovern Foundation, bolstering the foundation's impact.

• North Texas Interlink Workforce Development Project: Served as the first executive director, establishing a program that has remained a cornerstone of workforce development in North Texas for over 25 years.

Crisis Management & Earned Media Strategies

A comprehensive marketing and communication plan must integrate both traditional media and social media components. I have a proven track record of developing strategies that not only attract media attention but also leverage social media trends effectively. During my tenure at Houston Community College (HCC), the institution consistently received coverage from local, state, national, and international media outlets, securing an average of $10 million in earned media coverage annually.

I view the 24/7 news cycle as a continuous opportunity to shape and share the narrative of the organizations I represent. By closely monitoring news trends and cultivating strong relationships with media outlets, I have successfully navigated crises, reinforcing trust with the media and protecting brand integrity.

My experience in crisis management includes:

• Natural Disasters: During Hurricane Ike, I developed a responsive website within 24 hours to keep students informed about available resources and the status of classes. Additionally, I organized relief stations at key campus locations for the public and ensured employees received timely updates.

• Shooter on Campus: Played a key role in developing and training staff on response protocols for such incidents. My involvement in one particular incident contributed to a successful de-escalation with no fatalities.

• Leadership Media Crisis: Managed several incidents involving leadership malfeasance, ensuring that the institution's reputation was preserved during times of internal crisis.

Recognition of Leadership Excellence

• The “21st Century Most Promising Leader” Award from the Dallas Urban League

• Under 30 Leadership Award from the Dallas Business Journal

• East Texas US Postal Office Community Leader Award

Marketing & Communications Awards

Marketer of the Year American Marketing Association Houston Chapter

Texas Diversity Council “Diversity First” Award Recipient

NCMPR PR Person of the Year

27 Ava Gold Awards in public television community programming: Workforce development, employment opportunities, cultural awareness, and professional sports, Radio Faces weekly coverage of the Houston Texans NFL team

National Council of Marketing and Public Relations Regional Medallion and National Paragon Awards

PR News Public Relations Executive Award

PR News honored at the Washington Press Club

Cox Communications National Impact Award in Public Affairs