P R O J E C T S

For the University of Illinois Fire Service Institute (IFSI) 2003-today

Developed and currently implementing a strategic marketing plan for an entire year's activities. Serve as marketing and public relations consultant on a contractual basis. Projects include the development of the annual wall calendar (pdf) that serves as the centerpiece for all marketing activities. I edit and produce a bi-annual newsletter and numerous press releases relating to ongoing and newly introduced training activities. CLICK HERE FOR THE BELLS & WHISTLES

My work with IFSI also requires continual identification of new marketing strategies and market analysis to augment the formal marketing plan. I coordinate all conference attendance and updates of display materials. I also monitor the IFSI web site and make recommendations for updates.

For the Illinois Soybean Association / Illinois Soybean Program Operating Board 1978-today

Develop and implement numerous promotions of soy foods, both to consumers and influencers. Projects have included the coordination of media tours, food-preparation demonstrations and presentations to hospitals and clinics on the healthy benefits of soy foods. I've developed total strategic plans to produce comprehensive programs to reach consumers.

Develop and implement strategic communications plans and tools targeted to soybean producers and consumers. Projects include promotions to increase use of biodiesel fuels, both with consumers and farmer audiences. CLICK HERE FOR THE BELLS & WHISTLES

Develop and produce monthly newsletter and weekly web site news, including assisting in determination of content.

Continuous development of various communications strategies throughout the year, as projects are identified at the state and national levels, including for the Varietal Information Program for Soybeans (VIPS), a web-based database recording constituent values of soybeans.

For the Illinois Crop Improvement Association 2001-today

Developed customer procedures manual for certifying seed. Designed and produced artwork for marketing materials.

Researched and developed graphic identity for new product. Prepared and delivered presentations to various audiences to convince them of the value of the new product and to gauge interest in a new service being offered by Illinois Crop Improvement. This project included working with a patent and trademark attorney to get the graphic identity registered with the U.S. Patent and Trade Office.

For the American Soybean Association 2001-2002

Served as liaison to private foundations to identify and solicit funding for the World Initiative for Soy in Human Health (WISHH) program. Developed relationships with foundations and government agencies and wrote grant pre-proposals to fund technical assistance and product transportation into Southern Africa. The WISHH program is unique in that it works with Private Volunteer Organizations in developing countries to deliver protein-rich soy into local traditional diets.

For the California Crop Improvement Association 2001

Developed process-control manual that outlined internal processes for personnel to use when working with customers to certify seed. Examined and reviewed personnel responsibilities and made recommendations to streamline workflow.

For the Association of Official Seed Certifying Agencies (AOSCA) 2000-2001

Developed and wrote procedures for seed companies to become accredited to perform the mechanics of certifying seed for international movement of product. The project involved coordinating and facilitating a committee effort of seed certifying agencies and seed company representatives.

Developed and wrote process-control manual template for member agencies to use when applying for USDA accreditation for certified organic production.

For the United Soybean Board 2000

Developed and implemented industry-wide survey to measure and weigh research priorities across the entire soy value chain. The results of the survey will be used by the United Soybean Board to help set future research priorities funding and be incorporated into their strategic plan.

For the Soybean Research and Development Council 1997-1999

Acted as Director for Global Soy Forum, the first international conference for soybean production and research that engaged the entire soy value chain. Held in Chicago in August 1999, the conference attracted more than 1800 participants from 63 countries. Global Soy Forum combined the World Soybean Research Conference VI with the Midwest Soybean Conference 4, the Soy in Animal Nutrition Symposium and a separate soy foods track. CLICK HERE FOR THE BELLS & WHISTLES

For the Western Section of the Wildlife Society 1996-today

Annually edit and produce transactions from Annual Meeting.

For the Council on Diagnostic Imaging 1993-2004

Edit and produce semi-annual technical journal for national organization of Chiropractic radiologists.

For the Sierra Community College District 1997

Developed and implemented marketing strategies for Summer and Fall 1997 sessions, using direct mail, advertising and other marketing tools. The goal was to realize a 13% increase in enrollment. Through marketing strategies developed, a 25% increase in enrollment in the summer 1997 session was accomplished. Acted as Public Information Officer, preparing press releases and public information packets for Board of Trustees and press.

For the City of Sacramento Neighborhood Services Department 1996-97

Developed logo and promotional materials, including display, for Title 5 Social Services grant.

Developed and coordinated public relations and marketing strategic plan to promote various programs being offered by Neighborhood Services Department, targeted toward "at-risk" youth. Worked with staff and volunteers using the "train the trainer" method.

Developed marketing plan and recommendations for Area 4 of Neighborhood Services Department. The Department consists of code enforcement, parks and recreation, resources, housing and redevelopment. CLICK HERE FOR THE BELLS & WHISTLES

For the California Park & Recreation Society 1996-97

Developed membership brochure and made marketing recommendations to gain visibility for Association among membership and publics. Proof read publication.

For the California Library Association 1996-97

Developed Public Relations Plan to gain visibility for the organization among lawmakers and the media. Assisted in development of media database.

Facilitated meeting with Board of Directors to address issues related to declining use of California's libraries.

For Karen Bakula Public Relations 1996

Managed Fourth of July festivities for the city of Stockton, California, including corporate fundraising, celebration parade, entertainment and midway.

For the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service 1995-96

Developed Public Information Strategy for the Comprehensive Plan as part of the Central Valley Project Improvement Act (CVPIA). This project required designing a program that addressed farmers and other stakeholder's concerns regarding water availability. Work included interviewing farmers and irrigation districts in the lower San Joaquin Valley, who would be impacted by reduced flows from Friant Dam.

Coordinated public outreach program targeted at stakeholders in the Central Valley Project. Work included updating CVPIA home page and working closely with U.S. Bureau of Reclamation team members on the Forum process developed by John Garamendi, then Under Secretary for the Department of the Interior.

For the Center for Natural Lands Management 1994-97

Developed marketing plan to present the Center's services to potential customers. Developed public information strategy to inform state and federal agencies, developers and land trusts. Worked with media to disseminate information on the mitigation process. Managed open house and site dedication. Edited and produced quarterly newsletter. Wrote grant proposals.

For the California Wildlife Foundation 1994-97

Developed and produced brochure outlining the Foundation and its mission. Acted as Administrator, handling receipts and disbursements of grants and funds.

For various other clients

Developed public information strategies and marketing plans. Developed publications used as internal and external communications vehicles.

I am familiar and have worked with the following:

Soyfood industry
Fire Service industry
Homeland Security
Seed industry
National and international soybean industry
Mexican agriculture industry
Land and resource conservation
California water issues
Parks and recreation
Agriculture commodities
Political campaigns
Steel industry
Chiropractic industry
High-tech industry
Petroleum industry
Tourism