Jack Jarvis
Charleston, West Virginia
Summary
Results-driven strategic communications professional with more than 8 years of experience in developing and implementing communication strategies to achieve organizational goals. Proven track record of building and maintaining strong relationships with key stakeholders, both internally and externally. Skilled in crafting compelling messaging, utilizing a variety of platforms to effectively reach target audiences. Highly proficient in crisis communication, media relations, and public relations. Seeking to leverage my expertise to drive impactful communication initiatives for a dynamic organization.
Overview
10
10
years of professional experience
Work History
Communications Director
Fairness West Virginia
09.2019 - Current
- Developed and implemented comprehensive communications strategies to effectively convey key messages to internal and external stakeholders for West Virginia's largest LGBTQ+ civil rights advocacy organization
- Managed media relations by cultivating relationships with journalists and securing positive press coverage for the organization
- Oversaw the creation of engaging content for various platforms, including press releases, social media, and websites
- Monitored and analyzed communication metrics to measure the effectiveness of strategies and make data-driven decisions for continuous improvement
- Developed and executed all email campaigns, nearly doubling the organization's open-rate in less than 3 years
- Developed creative concepts and designs for a range of print and digital projects, including branding, marketing materials, and social media graphics
- Expertly coordinated all aspects of annual gala events that raised more than $200,000, including venue selection, vendor management, and budgeting, resulting in highly successful and memorable experiences for sponsors and attendees
- Successfully managed a portfolio of grants totaling over $140,000 in 2023, ensuring compliance with grant requirements and timely reporting to funders
- Coordinated and scheduled all Board of Director meetings, including preparing agendas, distributing materials, and taking meeting minutes
- Started an annual Lobby Day at the state capitol for LGBTQ+ rights, including recruitment of partner organizations, day-of logistics and grassroots lobbying support
- Monitored and analyzed legislative proposals to assess potential impact on LGBTQ+ rights in the state
- Helped develop and implement strategic advocacy campaigns to influence public policy and legislation including by drafting talking points, organizing multiple public hearings, and prepping staff members to testify during committee meetings
- Conceived and launched a new initiative to support LGBTQ+ youth in West Virginia schools by providing professional development to educators and administrators
Organizing and Advocacy Fellow
RESULTS
01.2022 - 11.2022
- Selected to complete an 11-month fellowship with RESULTS, a nonprofit organization based in Washington, D.C., that advocates for policy solutions to bring an end to poverty domestically and internationally
- Participated in monthly professional development sessions to learn from experienced advocates about the ways to successfully lobby congressional representatives and staff on key policy priorities
- Journeyed to Congress to lobby congressional representatives on policies to promote global health, nutrition, education and reduce poverty
Statehouse Reporter
The State Journal
01.2018 - 08.2019
- Covered and reported on all legislative sessions, hearings, and political events at the state capitol
- Conducted in-depth research on proposed bills, policies, and lawmakers to provide accurate and timely news coverage
- Developed and maintained strong relationships with key government officials, lobbyists, and stakeholders to gather insider information
- Managed tight deadlines, juggling multiple stories and priorities to meet the demands of daily news coverage
Higher Education Reporter and Weekend Editor
Charleston Gazette-Mail
05.2016 - 12.2017
- Conducted in-depth research and interviews to write compelling investigative reports on issues affecting higher education, such as student debt, campus diversity, and academic freedom
- Collaborated with editors and photographers to produce visually engaging multimedia content for online platforms and print publications
- Managed and edited content for weekend sections, ensuring timely publication and adherence to editorial standards
- Coordinated coverage of breaking news and developing stories on weekends, overseeing a team of reporters and freelancers to meet deadlines
- Won First Place in the 2017 WV Press Association Awards for Feature Reporting for a story on the one-year anniversary of massive flood in southern West Virginia
Education
Bachelor of Science in Journalism -
West Virginia University
Morgantown, West Virginia05-2016
Skills
- Efficiently prioritize tasks to meet deadlines and maximize productivity
- Cultivate and maintain positive relationships with journalists and media outlets
- Develop and implement engaging content strategies to foster audience engagement and brand visibility
- Coordinate and oversee initiatives from inception to completion, ensuring timely delivery and adherence to objectives
- Proficient in Adobe Creative Suite, including Illustrator, Photoshop, and InDesign, to create visually compelling and engaging visual assets
- Proficiently navigate WordPress and Squarespace to manage and update website content effectively
Timeline
Organizing and Advocacy Fellow
RESULTS
01.2022 - 11.2022
Communications Director
Fairness West Virginia
09.2019 - Current
Statehouse Reporter
The State Journal
01.2018 - 08.2019
Higher Education Reporter and Weekend Editor
Charleston Gazette-Mail
05.2016 - 12.2017
Bachelor of Science in Journalism -
West Virginia University