Leigh N. Eldred Portfolio

Education

University of Texas at San Antonio Diploma Summa Cum Laude 4,0 GPA BA Communication

Bachelor of Arts Degree

I discovered that my passion for creation evolved from classical art media ($50,000 Hunting Art Prize Finalist) to include digital content creation (NASA One Mission Discovery by Design Challenge Winner) during my time at the University of Texas at San Antonio. I graduated Summa Cum Laude with a 4.0 GPA, earning a Bachelor of Arts in Communication with concentrations in public relations and digital communication (verifiable on Parchment).

I held a pivotal leadership role as the inaugural President of Content Creators at UTSA and was an Adobe Student Ambassador. I earned distinction in the Student Leadership Academy, the Adobe Discovery Institute, and several honor societies. I remain a member of the Public Relations Society of America, the American Marketing Association, the American Management Association, and the Society for Health Communication.

With a relentless curiosity to learn, I independently cultivated a multidisciplinary skillset by earning 230+ certifications. In a rapidly evolving digital landscape, this serves as an agility metric that demonstrates my ability to master new technologies and instantly apply them to solve challenges. (See the certificates on my Certifications portfolio webpage and at LinkedIn.)

The University of Texas at San Antonio (UTSA)

The University of Texas at San Antonio

The University of Texas at San Antonio leads San Antonio’s knowledge economy as one of 21 designated Hispanic serving institutions and a top Tier One university. It has Carnegie’s R1 designation, positioning it among the top 4% in academic and research excellence the nation. It is one of six Tier One universities to hold three National Centers of Academic Excellence from the National Security Agency (NSA) and Department of Homeland Security (DHS). It is second in the nation for Business Management, Marketing & Related Services Education, and was the first four-year Texas university selected for Adobe Creative Campus designation.

UT San Antonio merged with the UT Health Science Center to become the third largest university in Texas, and it is the first in the nation to offer a dual degree in medicine and AI. Vice-Chairman of the Board of Regents James C. Weaver said the “merger is the catalyst that will supercharge our region as a national leader in learning, innovation, health, and economic vigor”. Situated in the heart of Texas’ second-largest city, UTSA inspires hope, encourages dreams, and builds a collective future for all Texans.

My Logo Design for the UTSA Communication Department

Multidisciplinary Skills

My journey to this point has been one of diligence, pushing through challenges to graduate Summa Cum Laude with a 4.0 GPA, earning a Bachelor of Arts (BA) from the University of Texas at San Antonio. I intensively studied studio art and art history before gaining a comprehensive education in my major of communication, with concentrations in public relations and digital communication.

I earned 220+ certifications, many through UT San Antonio curated programs, to become proficient in a range of skills including generative artificial intelligence (AI), social media and digital marketing, graphic and UI/UX product design, public relations, crisis communication, and emergency management. I undertook skill-based projects, through various Adobe creative campus programs at UT San Antonio, to augment university coursework in digital communication.

I utilized Creative Cloud technology to submit work in AI, marketing, graphic design, data visualization, video production, slide presentations, pitches, podcasting, webpage design, and visual communication to earn each micro-credential certification. I was selected to become an Adobe Student Ambassador and am proficient with Microsoft, Google, and Adobe Creative Cloud software.

Magazine Feature Writing & Graphic Design Presentation

Digital Communication

My coursework and practical experiences provided me with a strong foundation in various aspects of communication. This includes learning how to develop strategic communication plans and implement crisis communication tactics to effectively manage an organization’s reputation and build positive relationships with stakeholders.

I studied the ethical and legal aspects of communication, ensuring that my practices adhere to industry standards and regulations. I improved my interpersonal communication skills, learning how to effectively lead teams by communicating and collaborating with diverse teams and individuals.

I learned how to create and manage social media campaigns, engage with digital audiences, and analyze social media metrics to measure success. I developed skills in creating compelling written and visual digital content to effectively communicate messages to target audiences. I created apps, websites, infographics, charts, podcasts, blog posts, videos, graphics, features, media kits, reports, presentations and pitches.

I studied various digital marketing strategies, such as search engine optimization (SEO), email marketing, and online advertising, to promote brands and drive engagement. I gained proficiency with content management systems (CMS), HTML, CSS, Bootstrap, Generative AI, Google, Microsoft, and Adobe Creative Cloud software.

3D Modeling Animation for UX Design

UX/UI Product Design

I design apps and websites using Figma, Adobe XD, Dreamweaver, HTML, CSS, Bootstrap, and content management systems (CMS). I completed end-to-end projects at UTSA, and during the summer breaks and holidays through Google programs curated by UT San Antonio, to fully prepare for a future career in user experience design.

I utilize the design thinking process to empathize with users, define user pain points, ideate solutions, create wireframes and prototypes, as well as test and iterate on designs. This includes producing UX research plans, conducting interviews and usability studies, synthesizing results with affinity diagrams, and translating conclusions into actionable insights prioritized by user needs.

I ideate design solutions using crazy eights, rapid sketching, HMW exercises, and competitive audits. I empathize with users by devising bias-free empathy maps, user personas, user journey maps, user flow charts, information architecture, sitemaps, and by drawing big-picture and close-up storyboards. Using visual design elements and Gestalt principles, I create paper and digital wireframes with industry standard symbols, design systems, branding, sticker sheets, mockups, plus navigable low- and high-fidelity prototypes with iterations. I define pain points, value propositions, as well as problem and goal statements.

I employ essential foundational UX concepts of user-centered design, accessibility, and equity-focused design at every point throughout the design process. I cherish the idea of eliciting positive real-world impact with my designs as I continue to strengthen my skillset.

Public Relations Media Kit Fact Sheet Presentation

Public Relations

I develop and implement strategic marketing communication plans to effectively generate brand awareness, achieve organizational mission goals, manage organizational reputation, and build positive stakeholder relationships. I employ the RPIE process for social science evidence-based research, planning, implementation, and evaluation methodology with outcome-focused measurements.

I apply the ethical and legal aspects of communication to ensure my practices adhere to industry standards and regulations. I adhere to the International Public Relations Association (IPRA) code of conduct and the Public Relations Society of America (PRSA) code of ethics. I utilize interpersonal communication skills to efficiently communicate and collaborate with diverse teams and individuals.

I employ writing and editing skills to produce clear, concise, and persuasive content for various formats. I write and design multimedia news releases, fact sheets, features, promotions, presentations, and media kit production. I pitch stories to media outlets and manage media inquiries to ensure accurate and favorable coverage.

I conduct SWOT and audience analyses and write situation analysis reports. I perform strategic management with environmental scanning and handle crisis communication with proven techniques to respond to negative publicity and maintain public trust.

I plan and execute promotional events that align with organizational goals and enhance public image. I create and manage social media campaigns, engage with audiences, and analyze social media metrics as measures of success. I develop compelling digital content in the form of podcasts, blog posts, webpages, videos, and graphics, to effectively communicate messages to target audiences. I employ various digital marketing strategies, such as search engine optimization (SEO), email marketing, and online advertising, to promote brands and drive engagement. Additionally, I am proficient with Microsoft, Google, and Adobe Creative Cloud software.

Social Science Quantitative Research Analysis

Research Experience

I studied and independently conducted public relations, marketing, podcasting, branding, and social science research at UT San Antonio. I studied user experience research methods in a professional certification program and conducted user research, including usability testing, as the foundation for my work. I continue to utilize various primary research methodologies that include qualitative, quantitative, and mixed method approaches to gather and analyze data. I also conduct secondary research, from credible peer-reviewed scientific journals, as the basis for strategic decision-making before devising campaign tactics.

I have experience designing surveys instruments to collect data on public opinion, attitudes, and behaviors. I have conducted advanced data analysis using IBM SPSS statistical software and interpreted the results to draw meaningful conclusions. In addition to traditional methodologies for data analytics, I employ Artificial Intelligence (AI) to accelerate my workflow with the summarization of qualitative interviews, brand performance reporting, social media sentiment analysis, etc.

I faithfully adhere to the essential ethical considerations involved in conducting all forms of primary research, including obtaining informed consent and ensuring participant confidentiality. I carefully document my secondary research sources and AI analysis with citations and back-end documentation, should any process questions arise.

Testimonial

“Leigh I would say [is a] very passionate content creator, and it shows in everything… explains concepts in content creation like a queen, and are nice, courteous and respectful when addressing questions, making sure that nobody's missed. [She is] one of a kind, and [her] brand is something I don't think one could easily replicate.” -Andrew D.

University Organizations

UTSA Content Creators marketing Graphic

Content Creators President at UTSA

I led UT San Antonio students in the establishment of the Content Creators professional organization as the first elected president. Passionate about creativity and innovation, I personally created the logo, style guide, rules of conduct, organizational constitution, certificates, official webpage, and recruitment materials in the form of writing, graphics, and videos. I attended risk management training and taught many live workshops on various forms of content creation.

With the motto to “Create Connect Inspire”, we met weekly through online video conferencing to network as future creative industry professionals and collaborated on innovative multimedia projects with real-world impact. While working across industries and disciplines, we explored content creation strategies, multimedia storytelling, and personal branding.

We expanded our skill set in content creation tools, multimedia, podcasting, video, streaming, content design, production, UX/UI design, generative AI, and more with cutting-edge tools and resources. We gained valuable experience in workshops, contests, and mentorship while bolstering our portfolios and resumes for future careers. In dedication to inclusivity and accessibility, we ensured that all voices were heard.

Public Relations Society of America

Public Relations Society of America (PRSA)

After graduation, I continued my membership with the Public Relations Society of America (PRSA), which serves over 400 professional and student chapters internationally as the leading professional organization for the communications community. For over 75 years, PRSA has empowered practitioners at every career stage by providing a robust network of mentors and premier professional development as well as industry-recognized credentials, awards, and conferences. The organization fosters a community dedicated to advancing the strategic impact of public relations on a global scale.

PRSA upholds a steadfast commitment to integrity, guided by principles in the Code of Ethics. The industry-standard framework outlines core professional values that include advocacy, honesty, loyalty, professional development, and objectivity that direct practitioners to act as responsible advocates for their clients while serving the public interest. By championing transparency, identifying misinformation, and holding members to rigorous ethical standards, PRSA protects the long-term credibility of the profession while preparing members to lead as principled advisors in an increasingly complex media landscape.

American Marketing Association

American Marketing Association (AMA)

After Graduation, I continued my membership with the American Marketing Association (AMA), the preeminent community for marketers. AMA serves as a global force shaping the industry through emphasis on the tension between “Best Versus Next Practices”. The organization maintains a legacy of leadership that began with the articulation of the “Marketing Mix” that continues to elevate the professional role of marketing. Members participate in a unified network that prioritizes service leadership with a proactive approach to addressing both current and future business challenges.

The association offers access to extensive scholarly research through publications, such as the Journal of Marketing, and provides professional development through a comprehensive marketplace of knowledge and certifications. A network of over 70 local professional chapters facilitates connection and collaboration among practitioners and academics. Membership involves commitment to a rigorous Code of Conduct and Statement of Ethics whose standards ensure professional interactions are grounded in fairness, transparency, and the highest level of ethical behavior.

American Management Association

American Management Association (AMA)

I am a member of the American Management Association (AMA), which is a globally recognized, non-profit educational organization dedicated to skill advancement for individuals and organizations to drive business success. Since 1923, AMA has been a premier forum for the exchange of leading management insights and professional development services. With a mission to provide the resources necessary for performance excellence, it supports a diverse community of members and professionals across nearly every industry, including 90% of the Fortune 500. Its curriculum ranges from core leadership and management to specialized areas like project management, finance, and emerging technologies.

The AMA offers hands-on training through in-person seminars, live online classrooms, and on-demand courses designed for immediate practical application in the workplace through worldwide centers and affiliates. AMA empowers professionals to adapt to changing market realities and achieve long-term career growth. As a member-based organization, it continues to lead the industry in talent transformation while fostering commitment to ethical business practices and organizational resilience.

Society for Health Communication

Health Communication Society

I am a member of the Society for Health Communication, the only organization connecting individuals working in public health, healthcare, medical communications, digital health, health communication research, and academia. We join the Society to network with peers, refine skills, and learn the latest best practices to advance the field with leadership and dedication.

Health communication is a multidisciplinary field of study and practice that applies communication evidence, strategy, theory, and creativity to promote behaviors, policies, and practices that advance the health and well-being of people and populations. (SHC, 2017)

Friends of Figma

I am a member of several chapters within the Friends of Figma. It is an official community initiative that’s run by the community, for the community, focused on connecting creators through meetups, workshops, panels, and hands-on sessions. Local chapters organize both virtual and in-person events tailored to product design skill-building, portfolio development, and cross-discipline collaboration.

We welcome everyone from students and newcomers to seasoned practitioners. We attend events and share best practices while fostering an inclusive environment for learning and networking.

Adobe Student Ambassador

National Adobe Student Ambassador & at UTSA

I was selected to become an Adobe Student Ambassador (ASA) for UT San Antonio and at the national level. Ambassadors are chosen for academic excellence, creative thinking, a history of innovative achievements, a keen interest in creating content, and experience engaging with campus communities through organizational involvement and co-curricular activities. Reporting to an Adobe Education Leader (AEL), we were an essential resource for the entire community by serving as liaisons for Adobe to inspire innovation, entrepreneurship, and design thinking.

We led live workshops, lectures, product demonstrations, field trips, special Adobe programming, networked, and represented Adobe at events, while meeting monthly quotas for digital content creation. We honed creative problem solving, communication, marketing, and community building skills with early access to product developments involving cutting-edge Adobe technologies. We expanded our professional skills with exposure to Adobe experts, regular professional development training, and by connecting with diverse teams of ambassadors locally, across the country, and the globe.

UTSA Adobe Discovery Institute

Adobe Discovery Institute at UTSA

I was accepted into the Adobe Discovery Institute program of asynchronous sessions with project-based exploration designed to challenge and inspire. Co-Lab hours foster a collaborative learning environment while self-paced exploration of advanced techniques nurture digital proficiency.

We unleashed creativity and gained practical experience with Adobe Creative Cloud tools that include Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign, and Premiere Pro Video.

UTSA Student Leadership Academy

Student Leadership Academy at UTSA

I was one of thirty students accepted into the Student Leadership Academy (SLA) at UT San Antonio. It is a competitive semester program that develops the necessary skills to lead in any environment. Experiential workshops feature the Social Change Model with individual, group and societal perspectives of change. Defined in 1994 by Astin and Astin, it empowers emerging leaders to facilitate positive social change in their communities. Topics include leadership style assessment, interpersonal communication, event planning, intercultural understanding, strategic analysis, wellness integration, and cross-functional team management. By completing every workshop and accompanying action steps, we receive a medal to wear at graduation.

Public Relations Student Society of America

PRSSA at UT San Antonio

I joined the UT San Antonio chapter of the Public Relations Student Society of America (PRSSA), whose mission is to unite students with members of the surrounding community for the purpose of providing quality public relations services.

We enhanced members’ knowledge of public relations while providing access to professional development activities. We strived to further the public relations profession by helping to develop highly qualified professionals. We facilitated this through shadow opportunities, PRSSA job center access online, monthly PRSA luncheons, as well as resume and interview workshops. We also provided scholarships, internships, and volunteer opportunities.

The organization is the largest pre-professional society in the nation with over 10,000 members in over 300 chapters across the country. PRSSA at UTSA enhances educational experience, broadens professional networks, and launches careers in public relations and affiliated fields.

UTSA American Marketing Association

AMA at UTSA

I joined the UT San Antonio chapter of the American Marketing Association (AMA), whose mission is to build brands and shape futures by transforming collegiate experiences into marketing career launchpads. We sharpened our competitive edge by participating in national AMA competitions, conferences attendance opportunities, and award recognitions to amplify our professional visibility.

We offered professional development through hands-on marketing projects and leadership as well as industry relevant certifications and training. Educational growth was accelerated through interactive workshops, skill-building sessions, and real-world marketing campaigns powered by the latest tools and resources. We hosted guest speaker series with leading companies and mentorship programs paired emerging marketers with seasoned professionals.

We cultivated direct connections with industry leaders, engaged with AMA professional chapters, and attended alumni networking events. Through professional presentation opportunities and collaborative projects, we honed strategic communication, project management, and networking skills to lay the groundwork for successful careers in a dynamic marketing landscape.

Gamma Phi Chapter of the Delta Alpha Pi Honor Society

DAPI Honor Society at UTSA

I wholeheartedly value inclusivity, empathy, perseverance, and integrity, and these values are prevalent in the student organizations I have been a part of. I earned membership in the Gamma Phi Chapter of the Delta Alpha Pi Honor Society. It was the first student organization at the University of Texas at San Antonio to honor the academic achievements of post-secondary students with disabilities.

We broke barriers and stereotypes with strong leadership and advocacy while collaborating to educate the community. As activists for inclusion to counter prejudice, we became role models that mentored other students with disabilities. “Working for an aDAPtable World”, we supported the principles of universal design in learning.

National Society of Leadership & Success

NSLS Honor Society

I earned membership in the UT San Antonio chapter of the National Society of Leadership and Success. The organization was selected by campus administration to allow top students to participate in a leadership program that helps individuals discover and achieve their goals.

We were a community of like-minded, success-oriented leaders who came together to help one another succeed. The organization offered interactive broadcasts with the nation's top leaders, training in goal setting, and team meetings in which students set and held each other accountable for achieving goals. We built leaders who served as a powerful force of good in the greater community by encouraging and organizing action to better the world.

National Society of Collegiate Scholars

NSCS Honor Society

I earned membership in the UT San Antonio chapter of the National Society of Collegiate Scholars. The organization is an exclusive honor society of high-achieving students who embody the pillars of scholarship, leadership, and service while nurturing a strong foundation of integrity. We were nominated for membership in our first couple of years of college based on academic achievements and leadership potential, an honor that reflects our commitment to academic excellence and leadership.

We forged meaningful connections with like-minded students while fostering a passion for scholarly excellence and personal growth. We honed leadership skills, gained valuable networking experience, and contributed to the community through membership.

Student Art Society

I was a member of the Student Art Society (SAS) at UT San Antonio. The organization seeks to foster an inclusive, cross-discipline creative community offering weekly activities, one-on-one peer guidance, outdoor sessions, markets, vending opportunities, and exhibitions. The organization runs regular workshops and social sessions designed for beginners through advanced practitioners to learn new media and collaborate on projects.

We attended events, contributed to group projects, and supported peer-led programming that connected students with campus arts resources.

University Micro-Credentials & Certifications

I earned micro-credentials, certificates, and badges that affirm my actions toward gaining and utilizing leadership skills for project collaboration with multiple student organizations and honor societies as well as university programs. I won first place in the NASA One Mission Discovery by Design Challenge with judges from NASA and UT San Antonio. I repeatedly earned my place on the UT San Antonio President's List with a 4.0 GPA, graduating Summa Cum Laude with Bachelor of Arts (BA) degree in Communication with Concentrations in Public Relations and Digital Communication (verifiable on Parchment). I was accepted into and successfully completed the Student Leadership Academy and the Adobe Discovery Institute Programs. University badges for public relations, AI, branding, and podcasting were earned through real-world capstone projects. I also earned an award for organizational leadership endeavors. I earned certification in de-escalation bystander training to become a campus green dot. A Green Dot is a single moment in time when someone chooses to intervene and prevent a red dot of power-based personal violence from happening. I later volunteered to design social media promotional material as community service to generate program awareness. I also earned AI certification through University of North Florida coursework. (Verification for UT San Antonio may be affirmed at Parchment and Credly, while UNF and NSLS credentials may be accessed at the links. See the certificates on my Certifications portfolio webpage and at LinkedIn.)

University of Texas at San Antonio

University of North Florida

Student Leadership Academy (SLA)

National Society of Collegiate Scholars (NSCS)

National Society of Leadership & Success (NSLS)

Gamma Phi Chapter of the Delta Alpha Pi Honor Society

Green Dot at UT San Antonio

National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA)

NASA Discovery by Design Challenge UT San Antonio

University of Texas at San Antonio Diploma Summa Cum Laude 4.0 GPA BA Communication

NASA One Mission Discovery by Design Challenge First Place

Leadership Award

PR Campaign Planning

Podcasting

AI & Personal Branding

PR Campaign Planning

PR Evaluation Mastery

AI & Branding Media Relations

Marketing & Media Relations

Story Content Marketing

Audio Storytelling

PR Strategic Research

AI Powered Research

Podcasting Audience Research

Thought Leadership

Orientation Leadership Training NSLS

Leadership Foundation Training NSLS

Student Leadership Academy at UTSA

AI for Work & Life UNF

Scholarly Honor Society Member NSCS at UTSA

Mentoring Honor Society Member DAPi at UTSA

University of Texas at San Antonio Acceptance

Green Dot Bystander Training at UTSA

UT San Antonio President's List

UTSA Green Dot Social Media Marketing Promotion Design

Coursera Professional Certifications

I earned professional UX Design certification through coursework and exams through Google courses from Coursera programs curated by UT San Antonio. I also completed end-to-end university projects at UTSA to fully prepare for a future career in user experience (UX) design. I designed the user interfaces (UI) of apps and websites using Figma, Adobe XD, Dreamweaver, HTML, CSS, Bootstrap, content management systems (CMS), Microsoft, Google, and Adobe Creative Cloud software. I learned to utilize the UX design thinking process to empathize with users, define user pain points, ideate solutions, create wireframes and prototypes, as well as test and iterate on designs. (Verification of these credentials may be found at Coursera and at Credly. See the certificates on my Certifications portfolio webpage and at LinkedIn.)

Google Career Certificate Graduate in User Experience (UX) Design

Google UX Design Professional Certification

LinkedIn Learning Professional Certifications

As an autodidact with insatiable curiosity, I exist in a perpetual state of learning. I acquired new knowledge and improved existing skills through coursework in various software programs and content creation including web design, graphic design, motion graphics, video production, branding, generative artificial intelligence (AI), plus performance, content, social media, and digital marketing through the LinkedIn Learning platform. This enabled me to better lead workshops and mentor students working on digital projects. I passed exams to earn certificates from organizations such as the Project Management Institute (PMI), the International Institute of Business Analysis (IIBA), Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM), HR Certification Institute (HRCI), and the National Association of State Boards of Accountancy (NASBA) as well as many professional certifications from Adobe, Hootsuite, Moz, Microsoft, Content Marketing Institute (CMI), and American Marketing Institute (AMA). (Verification links for each of these credentials may be found on my LinkedIn profile under "Licenses & Certifications". See the certificates on my Certifications portfolio webpage.)

LinkedIn Learning

Content Marketing Institute (CMI)

Microsoft

Adobe

Hootsuite

International Institute of Business Analysis (IIBA)

American Marketing Institute (AMA)

Moz

Project Management Institute (PMI)

National Association of State Boards of Accountancy (NASBA)

Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM)

HR Certification Institute (HRCI)

Project Management Institute Certifications

I earned badge certifications directly from Project Management Institute (PMI) coursework, in addition to the certificates earned from PMI on the LinkedIn platform. (Verification of these skills and credentials may be found above in the LinkedIn Learning subheading, on my LinkedIn profile under "Licenses & Certifications", and at Credly. See the certificates on my Certifications portfolio webpage.)

Project Management Institute (PMI)

Adobe Creative Skills Micro-Credentials

I undertook skill-based projects on weekends, through the Adobe creative campus program at the University at Texas at San Antonio, to augment university coursework in digital communication. I utilized Creative Cloud technology to submit design projects in AI, marketing, graphic design, data visualization, video production, slide presentations, pitches, podcasting, webpage design, and visual communication to earn each micro-credential certification badge. I then utilized these skills to be accepted as an Adobe Student Ambassador at UT San Antonio and at the national level. I acquired various badges through points earned for project completion. I was also accepted into the university's Adobe Discovery Institute Program and earned perfect scores on projects utilizing Adobe software. Additionally, I passed exams to earn professional certifications in various Adobe software. (Verification of these skills and credentials may be found above in the LinkedIn Learning subheading, on my LinkedIn profile under "Licenses & Certifications", and at Credly. See the certificates on my Certifications portfolio webpage.)

Adobe Student Ambassador at the University of Texas at San Antonio

Adobe Student Ambassador Badges

Adobe Discovery Institute Program at UT San Antonio

Adobe Discovery Institute at UTSA Badge

Adobe Level up Fieldtrips

Public Relations Society of America Certifications

I earned course certificates from the Public Relations Society of America (PRSA) whose mission is “to make communications professionals smarter, better prepared, and more connected through all stages of their careers”. The organizational vision is to provide “an exceptional member experience that educates, inspires, guides, and galvanizes a diverse community of ethical, strategic communications professionals”. I complemented my university public relations coursework with professional development studies in the critical topics of ethical PR, integrated marketing, artificial intelligence, crisis communication, proactive reputation management, strategic planning, leadership collaboration, and brand building. I believe that a continually educated mind is essential for the public relations professional to practice effectively in the field to protect the organization one serves, foster relationship equity with the media, and build public trust. (PRSA offers the numbered certificates for credential verification. See the certificates on my Certifications portfolio webpage and at LinkedIn.)

Public Relations Society of America (PRSA) Advancing Communication Professionals

PRSA Learning

PRSA Member

FEMA & DHS Government Certifications

I completed courses and passed exams to earn certifications from the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). As required by my public health coursework at UT San Antonio, I studied the Incident Command System (ICS) and National Response Framework (NRF) under the Emergency Management Institute (EMI) within the National Disaster and Emergency Management University (NDEMU). This motivated me to complete other government professional development courses independently on leadership, problem solving, crisis communication, active shooter response, workplace security, animal care in disasters, community preparedness, and social media for emergency management. I achieved professional development for Public Information Officer (PIO), Emergency Operations Centers (EOC), National Incident Management System (NIMS), National Preparedness System (NPS), and Community Emergency Response Team (CERT). The course material served as an informative adjunct to my university studies in social science public health communication and public relations crisis communication. (FEMA offers the certificates & a transcript for credential verification. See the certificates on my Certifications portfolio webpage and at LinkedIn.)

National Emergency Response Professional Development

National Disaster & Emergency Management University (NDEMU)

Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA)

Other Certifications

My love of art creation, fine art, and art history compels my continual education, though most of my endeavors have not conferred certifications. I earned a badge certificate for a four-week course from the Modern Museum of Art (MOMA) that explored modern art through a lens that focused on themes relevant to everyday life by revealing common ground among artists’ materials and techniques. (See the certificate badge on my Certifications portfolio webpage and at LinkedIn.)

The Modern Museum of Art (MOMA)