Margarette P.

About Margarette P.

I’ve always believed in the power of conversation. It’s fascinating how a simple exchange can build bridges between people and communities. My journey began with a rather dramatic childhood incident—falling off a chair and injuring my tongue so severely that doctors doubted I’d ever speak again. But here I am today, thriving in roles where communication is key! I’m passionate about fostering relationships that matter—whether it’s with stakeholders, vendors, clients, or community members—and I find joy in every meaningful interaction. In my current role as a Community Relations Specialist at UKA North America, I engage with over 13 diverse stakeholder groups, promoting understanding of wind energy\'s benefits. It\'s rewarding to see how knowledge exchange can shift perceptions and foster acceptance within the community. It\'s been over four years at Magpie PR as a Strategic Communications Consultant, where I helped mission-driven organizations enhance their public engagement efforts through clear messaging. One of my proudest moments was during my time at Simmons Cancer Institute. I led community outreach for cancer prevention programs that reached countless individuals through health education initiatives and screenings. Being part of the Equity Ambassador team during the COVID-19 pandemic taught me the importance of adaptability in communication strategies during challenging times. Throughout my career—from anchoring news broadcasts to managing strategic communications for state agencies—I’ve learned that effective communication is not just about delivering information; it’s about creating connections that inspire action. For instance, while working at the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services, I directed over 70 advisory groups, which significantly enhanced organizational engagement. Outside of work, I’m committed to giving back to my community through various health advocacy initiatives. Whether it\'s volunteering at local events or participating in educational programs, I believe in using my voice for positive change. If you’re interested in discussing community engagement strategies or exploring ways we can collaborate on impactful projects, feel free to reach out via email at m•••••••@gmail.com.Skills: Communication | Community Relations | Public Engagement | Stakeholder Outreach | Public Relations | Strategic Planning | Strategic Communications | Social Marketing | Event Planning |

Experience

1. Community Relations Specialist

   UKA – Der Energieparkentwickler

   Nov 2023 — Present · IL, US

   Key accomplishments include: Conduct outreach to over 13 diverse stakeholder groups, enhancing community engagement and understanding of the economic development of renewable energy benefits by 40% within the first year of tenure. Establish local coalitions and activate focus groups to identify critical stakeholders and community concerns, resulting in a 30% increase in project support from local influencers. Deliver expert testimony at local permit hearings, mitigating project opposition by addressing concerns directly with policymakers and decision-makers. Design innovative engagement campaigns for land acquisition with personalized communications and promotions to select landowners, reducing land acquisition timeframes by 25%. Plan and coordinate multiple community events, including town hall meetings, listening tours, and presentations, fostering goodwill and increasing public awareness of utility-scale renewable energy. Design a public engagement campaign for holdout landowners, executing targeted communications, including direct letters to landowners, word-of-mouth messaging from influencers, and town hall events. Cultivate strategic partnerships with local, regional, and statewide stakeholders to grow the project employment pipeline, including pathways from STEM curricula, CEUs, internships, and apprenticeships. Uncover corporate philanthropy opportunities based on local needs. Develop community giving programs and execute strategic donations and sponsorships to increase the company’s reputation and goodwill.

Education

• Purdue Global

  Master of Science - MS, Public Health Education and Promotion

• University of Connecticut

  Bachelor of Arts (BA), Communication and Media Studies

  1988 — 1996