Rhiannon MacKenzie Dee
Downers Grove ,IL
Summary
Driven by a passion for impactful communication, I excelled at the U.S. EPA, where I spearheaded dozens of strategic events and enhanced stakeholder engagement through innovative outreach strategies. My expertise in research and meeting facilitation, coupled with a knack for crafting compelling narratives, significantly advanced the EPA's mission. My role in assisting senior executives underscores my adaptability and leadership.
Overview
14
14
years of professional experience
Work History
Strategic Communications Advisor
U.S. EPA, Region 5
02.2023 - Current
- Collaborated with HQ team to manage Region 5's adoption of strategic directives.
- Fostered internal and external connections to ensure communication opportunities.
- Coordinated regional BIL/IRA announcement rollouts with both regional and HQ offices.
- Monitored and evaluated rollout elements, offering constructive feedback.
- Identified optimal press event options aligning with EPA objectives.
- Organized and executed over 40 successful events within a one-year timeframe.
- Created efficient tracking systems to monitor External Communications Office operations.
Writer/Editor
U.S. EPA, Region 5
07.2016 - 02.2023
- Researched, synthesized, and transformed intricate material into audience-tailored messaging supporting EPA initiatives and leadership preferences
- Collaborated on crafting messages and briefing materials for high-level officials, including EPA administrator
- Produced and refined public outreach content adhering to plain language standards, agency messaging, and AP style.
- Coordinated with key stakeholders on planning and executing events including travel/visits, press conferences, annual awards ceremonies, EPAat50, Earth Day.
- Strategized social media and internal communications for major announcements and events.
- Ensured that all written work met quality standards before submission deadlines.
Public Affairs Specialist
U.S. EPA, HQ
03.2022 - 06.2022
- Coordinated planning and execution of ten national stakeholder roundtables with focus on contentious rulemaking.
- Directed rollout of comprehensive communication plans for multiple nationwide water initiatives.
- Managed coordination and planning for senior leader travel engagements to ensure strategic execution.
- Drafted communication materials emphasizing key efforts like the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and milestone anniversaries.
- Acted as liaison for communications between Office of Water Immediate Office and multiple program offices.
Public Affairs Specialist
U.S. EPA, Region 5
06.2019 - 12.2019
- Crafted and distributed media outreach materials relating to Great Lakes and water program announcements.
- Established media relationships and managed press inquiries and responses
- Collaborated with regional social media coordinator to design targeted campaigns.
- Collaborated extensively with regional program directors and headquarters to maintain timeliness, accuracy, and consistency in announcements.
- Fostered strong connections with state counterparts, ensuring consistent communication of accurate information across governmental tiers.
- Managed logistics for high-profile appearances of regional leaders.
Special Assistant to the Acting Regional Administrator
U.S. EPA, Region 5
12.2016 - 12.2017
- Facilitated seamless transition between presidential administrations in Region 5.
- Ensured acting regional administrator received daily briefings on high-profile, complex issues.
- Collaborated with regional senior leadership to pinpoint critical issues promptly.
- Coordinated meetings/events and materials with senior agency officials, state partners, and key stakeholders.
- Compiled detailed weekly reports summarizing regional operations.
Program Analyst
U.S. EPA, Region 5
06.2012 - 07.2016
- Facilitated meaningful dialogue between agencies by working closely with state counterparts.
- Conducted state oversight efforts to ensure compliance with Clean Water Act
- Conducted investigations into mismanagement allegations and formulated response protocols
- Conducted inspections and audits to ensure compliance with regulations
- Executed annual and long-term inspection targeting aligned with operational goals
- Handled citizen complaints, ensuring timely follow-ups with relevant authorities
Program Assistant Intern
U.S. EPA, Region 5
06.2011 - 06.2012
- Provided general administrative support to program staff
- Reviewed and processed correspondence ensuring timely routing
Education
Master’s Degree - Public Administration
University of Illinois Chicago
Chicago, IL05.2012
Bachelor’s Degree - Political Science
University of Illinois Chicago
Chicago, IL05.2009
Skills
- Strategic communications
- Message development
- Writing, editing, and proofreading
- Event planning
- Media outreach
- Stakeholder engagement
- Relationship building
- Adaptability and flexibility
Training
- 2022, Mid-Level Leadership Development Program, Graduated in August 2022.
- 2022, Plain Language Training
- Risk Communication Training
Emergency Response
- Assistant Public Information Officer, East Palestine Train Derailment, 2023
- Sampling Team Data Manager, Flint Drinking Water Crisis, 2016
Timeline
Strategic Communications Advisor
U.S. EPA, Region 5
02.2023 - Current
Public Affairs Specialist
U.S. EPA, HQ
03.2022 - 06.2022
Public Affairs Specialist
U.S. EPA, Region 5
06.2019 - 12.2019
Special Assistant to the Acting Regional Administrator
U.S. EPA, Region 5
12.2016 - 12.2017
Writer/Editor
U.S. EPA, Region 5
07.2016 - 02.2023
Program Analyst
U.S. EPA, Region 5
06.2012 - 07.2016
Program Assistant Intern
U.S. EPA, Region 5
06.2011 - 06.2012
Master’s Degree - Public Administration
University of Illinois Chicago
Bachelor’s Degree - Political Science
University of Illinois Chicago
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