Rita Jean Kelly Burns
Hyattsville,MD
Summary
Passionate about creating meaningful connections with clients, goal-oriented professional seeking an Event Specialist position. Possess a knack for delivering engaging presentations and performances, committed to leaving a lasting impact on every event involved.. Eager to join an organization that prioritizes quality presentations, positive client relationships, building responsible communities and creating valued cultures.
Overview
35
35
years of professional experience
Work History
Dance Program Manager /Performer/Production Asst.
Best Friends Foundation
01.1993 - Current
- Work in collaboration with President and Founder, Elayne Bennett, and team in all areas of planning and presenting for programs, seminars, conferences, performances and events
- Draft and Negotiated Letter of Agreements securing favorable terms that contributed to the overall success of events
- Identified areas of improvement, suggested and implemented solutions to increase quality events.
- Established supportive and creative environments among team members, school personnel and students to foster collaborative and supportive environment
- Adapted quickly to changing demands or unforeseen challenges, within a project without compromising results
Performer, Presenter
Self Employed
01.1990 - Current
- Dance Artist (Performed at Kennedy Center, Smithsonian and Dance Place. Can provide other details upon request)
- DJ (Presented at Kennedy Center, National Minority Aids Council, and Salute To Sam "The Man" Burns. Can provide other details upon request)
- Presenter and Culture Bearer (Presented at Howard University, American University and Ward 2 - Washington, DC. Can provide other details upon request)
- Developed and implemented creative ideas and collaborated with others to develop compelling and memorable presentations
- Managed variety of technical equipment
- Engaged in continuous research and professional development
- Tailored performance and presentations to cater to specific themes, audiences or events, resulting in highly personalized and memorable experiences
Teaching Artist
Words Beats & Life Inc.
06.2023 - 08.2023
- Provided elementary school students with stimulating, cultural education in hip-hop centric music and arts
- Developed curriculum and implemented innovative teaching strategies to accommodate diverse learning abilities, resulting in increased engagement and understanding
- Enhanced student comprehension and engagement by incorporating audio, visual and hands-on activities in lesson plans.
- Participated in regular organization meetings to provide input to colleagues and receive recommendations for improvement.
Administrative Assistant
The Center For Education Reform
01.2013 - 04.2015
- Answered multi-line phone system, routing calls, delivering messages to staff and greeted visitors.
- Operated telephone switchboard to answer, and direct phone calls, provided information, notated messages, scheduled appointments
- Maintained confidentiality of sensitive information by adhering to strict privacy policies
- Ensured accurate record-keeping with diligent data entry and database management for vital company information.
- Promoted a peer positive work culture through effective communication skills
- Supported executive staff through research, scheduling meetings, coordinating travel arrangements, and preparing important documents.
- Collaborated with others to organize internal and external events
- Liaised between clients and vendors, prioritized and maintained Development Outreach for effective lines of communication and positive environments
Education
Certificate of Completion - Office and Professional Services Virtual Training Program, Certified Guest Services Professional - (CGSP)
The Training Source, Inc.
Seat Pleasant, MD01.2022
Skills
- Event Coordination and Planning
- Program Management
- Strategic Project Planning
- Community Outreach
- Communication skills
- Microsoft 365 and other computer skills
- Works well independently and collaboratively
- Strong Interpersonal Relationship skills
- Detail-oriented
- Problem Solving
- Multitasking
- Willingness to learn and adapt
Timeline
Teaching Artist
Words Beats & Life Inc.
06.2023 - 08.2023
Administrative Assistant
The Center For Education Reform
01.2013 - 04.2015
Dance Program Manager /Performer/Production Asst.
Best Friends Foundation
01.1993 - Current
Performer, Presenter
Self Employed
01.1990 - Current
Certificate of Completion - Office and Professional Services Virtual Training Program, Certified Guest Services Professional - (CGSP)
The Training Source, Inc.
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