Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Timeline
Generic

Laura Githens

4325 S. Buffalo St., Orchard Park

Summary

Highly organized career journalist (law, military life, family dynamics, medical/health news) and researcher trained to respond to multiple tasks and inquiries through multiple channels, including in-person, phone, email and mail, providing clear, accurate and timely information. Detail-oriented with excellent verbal and written communication skills. Engages easily with colleagues and the public at all levels.

Overview

45
45
years of professional experience

Work History

Archive Researcher

New York Times Best-selling Author (NDA in Place)
09.2022 - Current

• Analyzing 100+ years of documents, annual reports, international communications, photography and interviews to create histories of numerous local and regional figures.

• Creating summaries, reports and profiles on tight deadlines as needed

• Distilling complex data to map out areas for further research.

Adminstrative Assistant

Margaret Sullivan, Instructor, Columbia University
08.2022 - 06.2023
  • Maintained confidentiality of sensitive information adhering to strict privacy policies and implementing secure filing systems.
  • Delivered prompt responses to client inquiries, addressing concerns effectively, and building strong relationships.
  • Ensured accurate record-keeping with diligent data entry and database management for vital company information.

Senior Reporter/Features Writer

Gannett Inc., (Rochester Democrat and Chronicle)
09.2002 - 09.2007

• Synthesized vast amounts of complex data into clear, informative coverage of breaking news on multiple deadlines.

• Daily work using and protecting sensitive and/or confidential information per in-house policies and directives.

• Maintained broad data bases of community contacts and sources.


Senior Reporter/Columnist

The Buffalo News
09.1990 - 09.2002
  • Lead reporter/writer focusing on all aspects of law, family dynamics, military life, medical and health news, pop culture.
  • Developed strong relationships with community members and sources, fostering trust and enhancing the quality of information gathered.
  • Maintained confidentiality of sources' personal data and relevant internal and external policies/procedures (e.g., HIPAA compliance).
  • Position required strong interpersonal and communication skills due to constant public-facing duties.

Radio Anchor/Reporter

UPI, AP, NBC, WGR/Buffalo, WLUP/Chicago
01.1980 - 12.1990

• Around-the-clock coverage of breaking news for major market listeners and staff on all shifts including morning, overnights and weekend.

• Consistent output in fast-paced, high-pressure environment where speed and accuracy are required to meet frequent, unexpected deadlines.

Education

Bachelor of Arts in Special Studies - Journalism/History/Communications

State University of New York At Fredonia
Fredonia, New York

Skills

  • Close proofreading and fact-checking of all copy and documentation to ensure accuracy and clarity
  • Skilled public-facing communication and assistance across all demographics
  • Maintaining confidentiality and safeguarding private data in all assigned duties
  • Fluid with content and data management, LexisNexis, social media, FOIA

Timeline

Archive Researcher

New York Times Best-selling Author (NDA in Place)
09.2022 - Current

Adminstrative Assistant

Margaret Sullivan, Instructor, Columbia University
08.2022 - 06.2023

Senior Reporter/Features Writer

Gannett Inc., (Rochester Democrat and Chronicle)
09.2002 - 09.2007

Senior Reporter/Columnist

The Buffalo News
09.1990 - 09.2002

Radio Anchor/Reporter

UPI, AP, NBC, WGR/Buffalo, WLUP/Chicago
01.1980 - 12.1990

Bachelor of Arts in Special Studies - Journalism/History/Communications

State University of New York At Fredonia
Laura Githens