Arista Wood
Rockville
Summary
Communications professional with extensive experience at Hendall Inc., specializing in strategic messaging and media relations. Proven expertise in content development and digital marketing campaigns, resulting in increased audience engagement and optimized outreach. Skilled in stakeholder engagement and utilizing analytics to inform effective communication strategies.
Overview
11
11
years of professional experience
Work History
Communications Specialist
Hendall Inc.
Rockville
03.2023 - 08.2025
- Served as a key collaborator to the Executive Director of Communications, supporting executive-level communications strategy.
- Develops and delivers research-based, audience-specific communication materials, including fact sheets, FAQs, newsletters, press releases, and social media content.
- Managed the preparation and distribution of the daily briefing document for the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), ensuring that all relevant information was accurately compiled and communicated to stakeholders.
- Led communications projects from concept through delivery, including planning, drafting, editing, and performance reporting to ensure on-time, high-quality outputs.
- Supports strategic communication initiatives for SAMHSA’s 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, strengthening public awareness and improving positive brand sentiment.
- Collaborated on the development and refinement of communication SOPs and templates to standardize messaging and improve workflow efficiency across project teams.
- Assists leadership with speechwriting, media statements, and public engagement materials.
- Provided logistical and communications support for conferences and public events, developing agendas, talking points, presentations, and promotional materials.
- Conducts communication strategy evaluations using Google Analytics and other digital tools to inform outreach improvements.
- Tracked campaign performance metrics and prepared leadership updates to inform strategic decisions and optimize ongoing communication efforts.
- Coordinates partner and media outreach efforts, providing weekly, quarterly, and annual performance reports.
- Drafts press kits, coordinates press events, and manages stakeholder communications to maintain alignment with campaign objectives.
- Facilitates virtual cognitive interviews, transcribes recordings, and supports qualitative data analysis for message testing.
Social Media Manager
Boss Nonprofit Consulting
Atlanta
01.2022 - 03.2023
- Designed and managed comprehensive social media marketing strategies for multiple nonprofit clients.
- Increased overall audience engagement by 30% through targeted social media campaigns.
- Developed and curated creative content across Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter platforms.
- Analyzed campaign performance using KPIs and identified actionable improvements to strengthen digital presence.
- Collaborated with marketing professionals to align social media initiatives with client brand goals and fundraising efforts.
Logistics Specialist
CTI
Rockville
08.2018 - 03.2023
- Managed communications and reporting for supply chain initiatives in partnership with the Defense Logistics Agency (DLA).
- Authored and distributed project updates, briefing materials, and quarterly reports for internal and external stakeholders.
- Designed training materials and led sessions for new team members, improving onboarding efficiency.
- Compiled data-driven insights to enhance workflow and project documentation processes.
Communications Specialist
Silence the Shame
Atlanta
01.2020 - 12.2022
- Created and distributed press releases, newsletters, and promotional materials supporting mental health awareness campaigns.
- Led marketing and PR initiatives, increasing organizational visibility and supporter engagement.
- Developed integrated communication plans for public events, product launches, and community initiatives.
- Oversaw content creation, publication readiness, and brand consistency across platforms.
- Collaborated with cross-functional teams to craft educational and outreach materials aligned with mission objectives.
Communications Intern
Atlanta Mental Health Foundation
Atlanta
01.2018 - 12.2020
- Supported digital and traditional media campaigns by scheduling content across Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
- Drafted media releases, newsletters, and event materials to promote mental health advocacy initiatives.
- Assisted in event coordination, prepared meeting agendas, and managed content updates for the organization’s website.
Service Logistics Manager
CBS Imaging
Beltsville
01.2015 - 08.2018
- Supervised field service operations and coordinated communication between technicians and clients across the D.C. metropolitan area.
- Managed supply chain logistics and customer communications to ensure timely service delivery.
- Supported revenue growth through proactive account management and client relationship development.
Education
Bachelor of Arts - Communications
University of Maryland Global Campus
Adelphi, MD01.2021
Skills
- Strategic communications and messaging
- Media relations
- Social media strategy
- Content development and editing
- Digital marketing campaigns
- Stakeholder engagement
- Copywriting and press materials
- Google Analytics and KPI reporting
- Project coordination and leadership
Affiliations
The National Honor Society, Member, 2023
Timeline
Communications Specialist
Hendall Inc.
03.2023 - 08.2025
Social Media Manager
Boss Nonprofit Consulting
01.2022 - 03.2023
Communications Specialist
Silence the Shame
01.2020 - 12.2022
Logistics Specialist
CTI
08.2018 - 03.2023
Communications Intern
Atlanta Mental Health Foundation
01.2018 - 12.2020
Service Logistics Manager
CBS Imaging
01.2015 - 08.2018
Bachelor of Arts - Communications
University of Maryland Global Campus