Dylan McDowell
Communications Specialist
Philadelphia,PA
Summary
Accomplished communications officer with a passion for good government and public policy. Works with elected officials, staff, and stakeholders to develop effective, diversified communications plans. Applies superior writing skills and unique voice to drive interest and participation. Advanced knowledge of modern communications tools including web design, email clients, social media, photography, graphic design and editing. Focused on relationship building, simplifying work processes, and elite constituent/client service.
Overview
4
4
years of post-secondary education
8
8
years of professional experience
Work History
Deputy Communications Director
Delaware State Senate
Dover, DE
09.2017 - Current
- Vastly expanded social media strategy, including shifting to an individual legislator approach, incorporating more digital media, educating staff and Senators on best practices, and growing the cumulative following for all Senators to over 64,700.
- Ran digital ads for top messaging priorities, including audience creation, budgeting, copywriting, and reporting.
- Proposed and executed the addition of mass email, which now allows legislators to send e-blasts and digital newsletters to over 13,000 contacts around the state.
- Trained legislators and staff on how to identify, reach, and persuade new contacts to sign up for general and subject-specific email lists.
- Completely rebuilt caucus website from scratch, adding important tools including a searchable district map, legislator profiles, special event support, and a section for Senate news.
- Aided in the drafting and editing of official communications for the Senate majority caucus and caucus members, including press releases, media advisories, speeches, op-eds, statements, quotes, and graphics.
- Planned and executed in-person and virtual policy forums, which brought constituents, elected officials, and policy experts together to discuss and formulate new legislative initiatives.
- Photographed Senate session days and community events; processed and edited photos and video; maintained and organized digital library of Senate media.
- Drafted Zoom policy and guide for caucus members and staff during the early weeks of work-from-home.
- Collaborated with senior staff from all four caucuses to make updates to standing policies, draft joint statements and press releases, and ensure continuity within the legislative branch.
- Frequently worked with leaders from executive branch agencies and the private sector on joint projects.
- Met and communicated with constituents virtually and in-person.
- Oversaw communications budget, proposed new spending when necessary, and identified savings opportunities.
Marketing and Outreach Specialist
Witty Gritty, LLC
Philadelphia, PA
04.2017 - 08.2017
- Led Instagram and Facebook outreach for clients including Philadelphia Parks and Rec, Philly Free Streets, and Symphony for a Broken Orchestra
- Distributed printed materials promoting local events and businesses
- Helped develop marketing plans for public and private sector clients in Philadelphia
- Provided host and event management support for clients including Comcast and Philly Tech Week
Field Organizer
Delaware Democratic Party
Middletown, DE
02.2017 - 02.2017
- Recruited, trained, and directed volunteers for an historic special election in the 10th Senate District.
- Canvassed registered voters from Newark to Middletown.
Wayne County Supervisor
Recount Michigan
Detroit, MI
12.2016 - 01.2017
- Recruited and trained recount volunteers
State Project Lead
National Education Association
, PA
06.2016 - 11.2016
- Interviewed, hired, and trained a team of 17 organizers on Pennsylvania campuses.
- Led a issue-organizing and petition campaign that garnered 1,700 signatures on school-to-prison pipeline issues.
- Organized electorally for NEA-endorsed candidates, reaching 12,000 voters in presidential and senatorial campaigns.
- Drafted all email, text, and digital ad communications targeting students on campuses in Southeastern PA.
- Designed printed materials to support organizing efforts nationwide, including "pledge to vote" postcards.
- Frequently met with and reported to a national team of state project leaders and NEA senior staff.
Bartender
GOAT Kitchen & Bar
Wilmington, DE
02.2015 - 09.2017
Field Organizer
Delaware State Education Association
Dover, DE
06.2014 - 12.2014
- Coordinated with DSEA senior staff and local leadership to mobilize and organize over 12,000 union members in 2014 elections
- Served as front-of-the-wall point person for candidates and campaign staff around the state
- Recruited volunteers through personal phone calls, emails, and volunteer pitches given at meetings & events
Education
Bachelor of Arts - International Studies
American University
Washington, DC 08.2009 - 05.2013
Skills
Advertising and Marketing
Public Sector Communication
Social media management
Graphic Design
Organizational Development
Microsoft Office: Word, Excel, Powerpoint, Publisher
State Government & Politics
AP Style Copywriting and editing
Accomplishments
- Participated in 2019 Eastern Leadership Academy and was elected class president.
- Represented ELA at 2019 CSG National Conference and multiple CSG East executive committee meetings.
Timeline
Deputy Communications Director
Delaware State Senate
09.2017 - Current
Marketing and Outreach Specialist
Witty Gritty, LLC
04.2017 - 08.2017
Field Organizer
Delaware Democratic Party
02.2017 - 02.2017
Wayne County Supervisor
Recount Michigan
12.2016 - 01.2017
State Project Lead
National Education Association
06.2016 - 11.2016
Bartender
GOAT Kitchen & Bar
02.2015 - 09.2017
Field Organizer
Delaware State Education Association
06.2014 - 12.2014
Bachelor of Arts - International Studies
American University
08.2009 - 05.2013