Open to opportunities

susan thomas

@susanthomas

Message

Strategic development and communications leader with proven impact.

United States

Message

What I'm looking for

I seek a role that values strategic communication and fosters collaboration, allowing me to leverage my skills in a mission-driven environment.

I am a strategic development and communications leader with extensive experience in public relations, crisis communications, and media relations. My career has been dedicated to enhancing the reputation of organizations through impactful operations and communications strategies. I excel in transforming complex information into accessible content for diverse audiences, particularly in mission-driven nonprofit environments.

In my current role as Director of Development, Operations, and Communications at the Utah Schools for the Deaf and the Blind, I have successfully developed strategic plans and led initiatives that significantly improved employee morale and organizational outreach. My efforts in fundraising and media relations have resulted in millions of dollars in reach and value, showcasing my ability to drive positive change and collaboration across teams.

With a background as a TV News Reporter/Anchor, I bring advanced storytelling skills and a deep understanding of media dynamics. I am committed to fostering teamwork and inspiring others to achieve common goals, while also advising senior leadership on effective communication strategies. My passion for strategic problem-solving and creative thinking drives my success in every project I undertake.

Experience

Work history, roles, and key accomplishments

Current

Director of Development, Operations, and Communications

Current

Utah Schools for the Deaf and the Blind

Jan 2018 - Present (7 years 5 months)

Developed and executed the agency's strategic plans, advanced project management, and received the Governor's Award of Excellence. Created an ongoing drumbeat of positive outreach that elevated employee morale and decreased silos within the organization.

Strategic Planning Project Management Public Relations Crisis Communications Fundraising Change Management Media Relations Digital Marketing Team Leadership

Planning and Information Section Chief

Utah Department of Public Safety – Division of Emergency Man

Oct 2010 - Jan 2018 (7 years 3 months)

Led project management initiatives and served as PR strategist and PIO to the DPS Commissioner and Utah Highway Patrol, coordinating with multiple agencies. Developed news release templates showcased by FEMA and authored weekly situation reports.

Project Management Public Information Officer Emergency management Crisis Communications Strategic Planning Budget Management Team Supervision Technical Writing

Communications & Marketing Director

American Red Cross

Apr 2008 - Oct 2010 (2 years 6 months)

Designed and executed internal and external communications plans, significantly improving public perception and receiving the Outstanding Service award. Managed teams and increased positive media coverage by 300%.

Communications Planning Marketing Public Relations Change Management Team Leadership Social Media Website Initiatives Storytelling Crisis Communications

Television News Anchor and Reporter

Confidential

Developed story ideas, conducted interviews, and crafted news stories daily for 10 years in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment. Served as a Health and Medical Reporter.

News Reporting Interviewing Storytelling Writing Public Speaking Research

Education

Degrees, certifications, and relevant coursework

Washington State University

Bachelor of Arts, Communications

Activities and societies: WSU Honors Program

Completed a Bachelor of Arts in Communications, participating in the WSU Honors Program. Additionally, pursued a second major in French, enhancing language and cultural understanding.