Ellen Almer
Evanston,IL
Summary
A seasoned writer, reporter, and researcher, I'm equally adept at producing brief, newsy web stories as press releases and communication flows for prospective students. As a trained journalist, I have the expertise to sell stories to local media outlets to gain valuable earned news coverage.
Overview
30
30
years of professional experience
Work History
Contract reporter
The New York Times
Chicago, Illinois
09.2002 - Current
- Cover breaking news in Chicago and the Midwest, traveling to Iowa (to write about corn) and Minnesota (for a story about a paroled member of Charles Manson's "family")
- Generate timely story ideas from current events and trends, resulting in a front page byline for my story about online psychiatry.
Content Specialist
North Park University
Chicago, IL
09.2017 - 05.2026
- Developed engaging content for university marketing materials and digital platforms, including editing The North Parker alumni magazine.
- Leveraged my experience in journalism and contacts in the field to earn free television and print coverage for North Park University.
- Coordinated with graphic designers to produce visually compelling content, including a "Zine" aimed at high school juniors and annual reports for donors.
- Edited articles and publications to ensure clarity, consistency, and adherence to brand guidelines.
Online reporter
Crain's Chicago Business
Chicago, IL
10.1999 - 04.2002
- Wrote compelling articles on the finance, technology, and healthcare sectors for this business publication.
- Gathered facts from multiple sources to complete investigative reports.
- Attended press conferences to cover breaking news stories.
Reporter
Chicago Tribune
Chicago, IL
04.1996 - 09.1999
- As one of the first members of the Tribune's Internet team, I researched and wrote articles on breaking local news and events.
- Cultivated sources to gather information from local government agencies, companies, and institutions.
Education
Master of Science - Journalism
Northwestern University, Medill School
Evanston, IL05-1995
Bachelor of Arts - English Literature
North Park University
Chicago05-1994
Skills
- Content creation
- Digital marketing
- SEO optimization
- Copy editing
- Media relations
- Public relations tactics
- Visual storytelling
Timeline
Content Specialist
North Park University
09.2017 - 05.2026
Contract reporter
The New York Times
09.2002 - Current
Online reporter
Crain's Chicago Business
10.1999 - 04.2002
Reporter
Chicago Tribune
04.1996 - 09.1999
Master of Science - Journalism
Northwestern University, Medill School
Bachelor of Arts - English Literature
North Park University