Adria Johnson
Austin,TX
Summary
Media relations and communications expert with over 15 years of experience in journalism and institutional communications. Currently serves as primary media liaison for Dell Medical School, effectively managing press engagement during leadership transitions. Proficient in message development and executive communications, with a strong focus on collaborative storytelling across various domains. Prepared to transition into a Director-level position to lead comprehensive media strategies and team initiatives.
Overview
2026
2026
years of professional experience
Work History
Assistant Director of Media Relations
Dell Medical School, The University of Texas at Austin
Austin, TX
09.2023 - Current
- Since 2024, serve as primary media contact for Dell Med, managing inquiries and proactive outreach during leadership transition.
- Coordinate with institutional and university communications partners to ensure message alignment across various outlets.
- Write, edit, and distribute press releases and media statements.
- Advise faculty and leadership on media opportunities, talking points, and interviews regarding sensitive topics.
- Collaborate with MarComm colleagues to unify storytelling across media and digital channels.
- Produce multimedia content, including executive videos and strategic story packages.
- Track and report media coverage, trends, and outcomes for communications leadership.
Media Relations Manager
Dell Medical School, The University of Texas at Austin
Austin, USA
12.2019 - 09.2023
- Drafted and distributed press releases, coordinated interviews, and managed daily press engagement.
- Built and maintained media contact lists; executed targeted pitches tied to research, education, and clinical priorities.
- Oversaw media analysis and generated regular coverage summaries and insights for leadership.
- Produced and edited short videos for social media, Dell Med’s website, and as collateral for press outreach.
- Supported faculty and staff with media preparation, key messages, and coordination.
Writer & Content Producer (Today in LA)
NBC Universal / NBC4 Los Angeles
Universal City, USA
10.2003 - 09.2018
- Emmy Award–winning producer and writer creating high-visibility content for broadcast and digital channels.
- Researched, wrote, and produced enterprise stories and franchise segments under tight deadlines.
- Collaborated across newsroom teams to deliver accurate, engaging storytelling.
- Adapted production workflows and content delivery through major industry transitions.
Segment Producer
MSNBC
New York, New York
2000 - 2003
- Created engaging content for live broadcasts and digital platforms.
- Directed talent during live broadcasts to ensure seamless execution.
- Researched topics for segments and crafted relevant supporting materials.
Education
Bachelor’s Degree - Journalism
Texas Christian University
Skills
- Press releases and pitching
- Crisis communications
- Content strategy and editorial planning
- Stakeholder engagement
- Media training and message development
- Multimedia storytelling
- Social media strategy
- Media monitoring and analysis
- Digital publishing and newsroom management
- Press list development and organization
- Video production and scripting
Leadership Impact Highlights
- Sole media relations lead for Dell Medical School and UT Health Austin since October 2024, maintaining institutional visibility and issue response continuity during organizational transition.
- Trusted advisor to senior leaders, faculty, and communications colleagues on media positioning and message development.
- Proven track record of high-quality placements in local, regional, and national outlets.
- Deep background in newsroom operations and content production, including Emmy-winning work at NBC4 Los Angeles.
Selected Strengths Tools
- Media monitoring/listening platforms
- Newsroom CMS and digital publishing
- Press list management
- Video scripting and production
- Social media messaging and coordination
- Analytics and reporting dashboards
- Event and announcement logistics
Websites
Awards Recognition
Emmy Award–winning newsroom producer (NBC4 Los Angeles)
Timeline
Assistant Director of Media Relations
Dell Medical School, The University of Texas at Austin
09.2023 - Current
Media Relations Manager
Dell Medical School, The University of Texas at Austin
12.2019 - 09.2023
Writer & Content Producer (Today in LA)
NBC Universal / NBC4 Los Angeles
10.2003 - 09.2018
Segment Producer
MSNBC
2000 - 2003
Bachelor’s Degree - Journalism
Texas Christian University