KAYLA ROBBINS
Summary
Communications professional with extensive experience in leading strategic initiatives within federal and academic sectors. Expertise in converting complex technical and scientific research into accessible content for diverse audiences. Successfully developed and implemented content strategies and outreach events at the National Institute of Nursing Research, enhancing visibility and engagement for NIH-funded studies. Proficient in media relations, fostering connections with national and international news outlets to amplify messaging.
Overview
5
5
years of professional experience
Work History
Public Affairs Specialist
National Institutes of Health
09.2024 - 03.2025
- Served as the liaison to Congress, representing NINR within NIH's Office of Legislative Policy and Analysis.
- Drafted contributions for FY24 Congressional Justification, supporting a $197M research budget request.
- Coordinated and executed campus visits and tours for congressional staff and key external stakeholders, ensuring alignment with NINR's scientific mission.
- Led planning and execution for 15+ in-person and virtual partnership events in collaboration with research institutions and public health organizations, including agenda development, speaker coordination, and briefing material preparation.
- Supported planning and logistics for congressional briefings and events to promote nursing science.
- Tracked pertinent legislation impacting nursing and biomedical research, summarizing and flagging critical developments.
- Managed inquiries from the public, media, and congressional offices with accuracy and timeliness.
- Initiated monthly media outreach campaigns to promote research breakthroughs and scientific milestones.
- Maintained working relationships with 20+ external organizations and universities including ANA, AACN, FNINR, the University of Maryland School of Nursing, and the University of South Carolina College of Nursing.
- Wrote, edited, and produced scientific brochures, fact sheets, and press materials.
- Hybrid
Public Affairs Specialist
Department of the Air Force
12.2023 - 09.2024
- Led 24/7 media coordination for 350+ Air Force One/Two movements, including escorting 2,350+ White House press personnel.
- Co-led planning for AppleTV+ premiere event of Masters of the Air featuring celebrity actors and producers. Managed red carpet logistics, media credentialing, and executive escort for more than 700 guests, including military and entertainment VIPs.
- Led planning for key base events such as Community Outreach Day, Honorary Commander visits, and awards ceremonies to strengthen community and stakeholder engagement.
- Led press coordination for 32 NATO delegations during the 2024 NATO Summit including coverage by 100+ international outlets.
- Wrote and cleared 40+ press releases, advisories, and talking points for real-world events and incidents.
- Created social media and news content to amplify command messaging and improve public engagement, resulting in a 15% increase in online interactions.
- Spearheaded crisis communication strategies during aircraft mishaps, ensuring timely dissemination of accurate information to the media and public.
- Coordinated internal and external communications to manage public perception and uphold the organization's reputation during sensitive situations.
- Expanded media contact list by over 65 contacts through strategic relationship-building with reporters and assignment desks from major networks, including ABC, CBS, NBC, CNN, FOX, AP, Reuters, and the White House Press Office.
Student Athlete Association Lead
Johns Hopkins University
06.2020 - 12.2023
- Coordinated events and workshops to support student-athlete well-being, including mental health discussions and leadership development sessions.
- Led creation and scheduling of digital marketing and social media content to highlight student-athlete stories and promote association events, contributing to a 40% increase in audience engagement.
- Facilitated monthly meetings and helped guide strategic planning for the association's initiatives.
- Partnered with the athletic department and diversity office to promote inclusive campus programming.
- Managed communication with 100+ members via email, newsletters, and in-person briefings.
- Supported social media efforts to increase visibility of student-athlete experiences and advocacy work.
Director of Operations
Johns Hopkins University
08.2021 - 12.2023
- Supported day-to-day operations for the university's athletics department, coordinating logistics for team travel, housing, and scheduling.
- Assisted with budget tracking and vendor coordination for team gear and supplies.
- Helped organize 20+ team and university events, including welcome receptions, speaker panels, and game-day promotions.
- Designed and distributed internal communications, including team updates, scheduling notices, and event reminders.
- Worked closely with compliance officers to ensure adherence to NCAA guidelines.
- Drafted reports and materials for department leadership related to student engagement and operations.
- Served as liaison between athletes, staff, and student services to improve campus experience and access to resources.
Education
Bachelor of Arts -
University of Michigan
Ann Arbor, MI01.2020
Public Affairs & Communication Strategy Qualification Course - undefined
Defense Information School
Fort Meade, MD11.2024
Skills
- Science & Research Communication
- Strategic Messaging & Communication Plans
- Technical Writing
- Media Relations
- Event Outreach
- Web & Print Content Development
- Adobe Premiere Pro
- Canva & WordPress
Awards
Johns Hopkins University Quarterly Leadership Award, Department of the Air Force Wing Staff Agencies Civilian of the Quarter, Department of the Air Force Award for Civilian Achievement - NATO Summit, University of Michigan Women’s Basketball Captain Leadership Honors
Timeline
Public Affairs Specialist
National Institutes of Health
09.2024 - 03.2025
Public Affairs Specialist
Department of the Air Force
12.2023 - 09.2024
Director of Operations
Johns Hopkins University
08.2021 - 12.2023
Student Athlete Association Lead
Johns Hopkins University
06.2020 - 12.2023
Public Affairs & Communication Strategy Qualification Course - undefined
Defense Information School
Bachelor of Arts -
University of Michigan
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