Ryan Helsel

About Ryan Helsel

With more than 20 years of experience across academic publishing, cultural institutions, and media organizations, I focus on connecting ideas to audiences in thoughtful, accessible, and impactful ways.In my current role as Publicist and Academic Exhibits Coordinator for Journals at Duke University Press, I help expand the reach of scholarly work by shaping outreach strategies, managing institutional presence at conferences, and building meaningful engagement both within and beyond academia.My background also includes work as an educator at a contemporary art museum and as Marketing Director for an internationally recognized documentary film festival. Across these roles, I’ve consistently worked at the intersection of education, storytelling, and public engagement, translating complex ideas into experiences that resonate with diverse communities.I’m especially interested in work that values collaboration, cultural impact, and the thoughtful sharing of knowledge. Always happy to connect with others working in publishing, cultural organizations, higher education, and public-facing engagement.Core areas of interest include public engagement, cultural programming, strategic communications, public education, and collaborative partnerships.

Experience

1. Publicist & Academic Exhibits Coordinator Journals and Collections Marketing

   Duke University Press

   Sep 2022 — Present · Durham, NC, US

   Lead the public-facing presence of Duke University Press Journals and Collections across conferences, media, and digital platforms, expanding the reach and visibility of scholarly publishing.• Direct Duke University Press’s Journals and Collections presence at 80+ academic conferences annually, overseeing strategy, logistics, budgeting, and exhibit design• Develop and execute publicity and social media strategies for 65+ academic journals, supporting the publication of 200+ issues per year across diverse disciplines• Design and produce promotional materials (print and digital), including ads, signage, and branded merchandise, using Adobe Creative Suite• Collaborate with global editorial offices to craft press releases, media pitches, and promotional campaigns• Manage social media campaigns engaging followers, and produce blog content highlighting journal research and industry trends• Partner cross-functionally with marketing, production, sales, and finance teams to deliver effective, budget-conscious outreach

Education

• University of Saint Francis

  B.A.

Skills

• Event Planning
• Coordinating Events
• Photography
• Art
• Social Media
• Public Relations
• Photoshop
• Project Coordination
• Museums
• Adobe Creative Suite
• Newsletters
• Marketing
• Press Releases
• Library
• Marketing Communications
• Merchandise Design
• Public Speaking
• Research
• Documentaries
• Event Management
• Community Outreach
• Creative Direction
• Editing
• Video Editing
• Advertising
• Visual Merchandising
• Nonprofits
• Film Festivals
• Graphic Design