Patricia Markland Cole

Managed the daily operations of the public information service, delivering confidential, evidence-based information regarding the benefits and risks of exposures during pregnancy and breastfeeding to the public and healthcare providers throughout the Northeast region. Delivered unbiased guidance to the public and clinicians, educating on risk assessments. Ensured program alignment with mission and advocacy goals, while providing training and education to staff and promoting the program.

• Revitalized an inoperative program by reestablishing its presence across New England (Massachusetts, Maine, New Hampshire, and Rhode Island). Despite the program's 43 years of successful operation, state-level funding cuts resulted in its closure.
• Performed client needs assessments through interviews following HIPAA guidelines and provided both verbal and written data-driven summaries by letter compiled from literature reviews of scientific articles and publications. Provided guidance, resources, and referrals as appropriate.
• Tailored the delivery of complex information to diverse audiences, including the general public, healthcare providers, human resource managers, and lactation consultants, successfully serving up to 2,000 participants annually at the program's peak.
• Collaborated with OTIS, MotherToBaby's scientific parent organization, to expand program outreach to underserved communities and fulfill Health Research Service Administration (HRSA) grant requirements for outreach, education, and technology development. Produced educational materials and submitted data analyses and comprehensive reports.
• Developed and implemented culturally sensitive materials to promote organizational diversity, with a focus on reaching underserved communities. Translated and designed fact sheets and brochures, tailored to various ethnicities and local needs, to enhance accessibility and inclusivity.
• Maintained data collection, compiling and reporting on demographic and educational needs assessments. Collaborated with the Board of Directors and key stakeholders to develop strategies for enhancing and implementing service delivery and growth opportunities..
• Developed and cultivated partnerships with community-based organizations and hospitals to increase visibility and establish referral networks.
• Served as a guest lecturer for Brandeis University and the MGH Institute of Health Professions, delivering annual courses on the Basics of Teratology and counseling, with a focus on data evaluation and case presentation review.
• Authored multiple educational blog posts and secured a targeted local radio public service announcement to enhance community awareness.
• Managed the regional transition to a new program name in 2011 as part of the rebranding initiative.
• Recognized for excellence by management & evaluators, citing: “initiative…patient focused…extremely collaborative team player…administrative and interpersonal skills…needs little direction…valued and trusted employee…dedicated, conscientious, reliable…an excellent asset…positive attitude…flexibility…role model”.

Maintained the same position following the relocation from the National Birth Defects Center to Boston Children's Hospital. In 2022, the program was relocated to The Genesis Foundation for Children, ceasing operations in 2024.

• The position commenced at the National Birth Defects Center. Initially known as the Pregnancy Environmental Hotline, the service was subsequently rebranded as MotherToBaby MA. I
• In 2011, the program was relocated to Boston Children's Hospital.

• Selected to serve as a member of the national board due to demonstrated leadership and proactive approach to undertake additional initiatives supporting organization goals and impact
• Collaborated with executive leadership to oversee program evaluations and strategic planning and development.
• Championed cultural sensitivity awareness; proposed initiatives to increase visibility for issues specific to African American Health and childcare issues
• Served on marketing and education committee, leading efforts to enhance branding and visibility through the creation of updated materials. Collaborated with and advised newly hired marketing director on content development, quality and appeal of video messaging