Melissa Smith
Traverse City,MI
Summary
A seasoned communications and media professional with over 10 years of experience in donor relations, fundraising, and public speaking. Proven ability to cultivate relationships with key stakeholders and develop strategic communication plans to engage donors and meet revenue goals. Highly skilled in media relations, storytelling, and event management, with a strong background in nonprofit and philanthropic work. Passionate about promoting organizational missions and values through innovative donor engagement strategies.
Overview
11
11
years of professional experience
Work History
Board Vice President, Media Relations Focus
TC Paw Cat Rescue
Traverse City, MI
04.2023 - Current
- Developed and implemented a new donor outreach strategy, resulting in an increase in donations within six months
- Manage donor relations and foster new relationships to support the organization's fundraising goals
- Collaborate with the fundraising team to develop and implement strategies that increase donations and engagement
- Deliver presentations and participate in community outreach to raise awareness of the organization's mission
- Oversee social media channels (Instagram, Facebook), increasing donor engagement and promoting events
- Actively support fundraising efforts through press releases, media outreach, and securing media coverage for the rescue
- Lead initiatives to recognize major donors and engage them in ongoing support for the organization
Director of Public Relations and Media Relations
Cultured Kombucha Co.
Traverse City, MI
09.2023 - 06.2024
- Boosted social media engagement by 30% through targeted campaigns and collaborations with local influencers
- Spearheaded media relations and social media strategies to promote the company and increase brand visibility.
- Managed all social media accounts and crafted messaging to align with marketing objectives.
- Collaborated with the founder to prepare for media interviews and presentations, ensuring consistent and compelling storytelling.
- Secured media interviews to promote the company within the health and wellness space, increasing brand recognition.
Senior Specialist of Media Relations
The Humane Society of the United States
Washington D.C. (remote)
08.2021 - 08.2023
- Built and nurtured relationships with national media outlets to promote the Humane Society's mission and campaigns
- Served as a media trainer for international campaigners, equipping them to communicate effectively with donors and stakeholders
- Delivered key messages on animal welfare, legislative issues, and organizational impact to a broad audience
- Collaborated with the fundraising team to align media outreach with donor engagement efforts, supporting the organization's revenue goals
- Coordinated media coverage on high-profile outlets, including the TODAY Show, PEOPLE Magazine, and CNN, to raise awareness for the organization's campaigns
TV News Anchor
WWTV 9&10 News
Traverse City, MI
05.2019 - 08.2021
- Co-anchored 'the four', a live, hour-long lifestyle show, engaging with the community and promoting nonprofit causes through media coverage
- Emceed and supported large-scale community fundraising events, strengthening ties between the station and local nonprofits
- Interviewed guests during the live show and for daily reports
- Published daily online reports and produced social media content, via Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram to promote each segment
Morning TV News Anchor & Health Reporter
UpNorthLive TV 7&4 News
Traverse City, MI
02.2014 - 11.2018
- Anchored daily 4:30 a.m. to 7 a.m. LIVE news show, engaging viewers across a 26-county region with compelling news and human-interest stories
- Emceed nonprofit events and fundraisers, leveraging public speaking skills to raise awareness and support for charitable causes
- Wrote and produced news headlines, ensuring coverage of diverse topics to inform and engage a broad audience
- Interviewed community leaders, nonprofit representatives, and other guests during LIVE shows and for daily reports, using strong interpersonal skills to tell impactful stories
Education
Bachelor of Arts - Journalism & Public Relations
Michigan State University, Honors College
East Lansing, MI05-2006
Skills
- Donor Engagement & Stewardship
- Fundraising Strategy Development
- Public Speaking & Storytelling
- Volunteer Management & Training
- Media Relations & Press Outreach
- Strategic Communication Planning
- Event Planning & Execution
- Relationship Building & Networking
Affiliations
TC Paw Cat Rescue - Lead Volunteer - Apr 2023 - Present
- Lead donor outreach, media relations, and fundraising campaigns to support the rescue's mission
For Animals TC - Board Member - Oct 2016 - Jan 2020
- Educated the local community on the importance of spay/neuter and raised awareness for the non-profit animal rights group
The ALS Association Michigan Chapter - Board of Directors - Aug 2015 - Aug 2020
- Represented Northern Michigan, supporting ALS patients and raising awareness through local outreach
American Heart Association - Head Chair - Feb 2011 - Mar 2013
- Chaired and emceed the first HeartChase fundraiser in Traverse City, raising funds for heart disease research
March of Dimes - Member Board of Directors & Media Relations Chair - Feb 2010 - Apr 2016
- Served on the Traverse City Chapter, promoting fundraising events such as the "SwingShift" and the "Stars Dance Off"
Timeline
Director of Public Relations and Media Relations
Cultured Kombucha Co.
09.2023 - 06.2024
Board Vice President, Media Relations Focus
TC Paw Cat Rescue
04.2023 - Current
Senior Specialist of Media Relations
The Humane Society of the United States
08.2021 - 08.2023
TV News Anchor
WWTV 9&10 News
05.2019 - 08.2021
Morning TV News Anchor & Health Reporter
UpNorthLive TV 7&4 News
02.2014 - 11.2018
Bachelor of Arts - Journalism & Public Relations
Michigan State University, Honors College
Similar Profiles
Ryan E. WeberRyan E. Weber
Cat Café Host at Cat Café RescueCat Café Host at Cat Café Rescue
Mila TrammellMila Trammell
Caretaker at Cat Haven RescueCaretaker at Cat Haven Rescue
Christian MenesesChristian Meneses
Kennel Attendant at Ninth Life Cat RescueKennel Attendant at Ninth Life Cat Rescue