Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Certification
Publications
References
Languages
Timeline
Hi, I’m

ROWANA ABBENSETTS-DOBSON

Queens,NY
ROWANA ABBENSETTS-DOBSON

Summary

Results-driven Writer, Editor & Communications Specialist. Proven expertise in editing manuscripts, publishing magazines, and training teams in AP Style. As a Communications Specialist and Content Strategist, collaborates with mission-driven clients, producing impactful content for diverse channels, including narrative crafting, press releases, and social media. Experienced in marketing, social media management, website redesign, and brand refresh. Versatile background includes managing marketing and social media for the New York State Poetry Out Loud Competition and crafting newsletters for a 100K+ mailing list. Published in reputable outlets such as Insider and Well +Good, highlighting a unique blend of creativity and organizational prowess. Inspiring Chief Editor with 10 years of content creation and development oversight delivering relevant and engaging content to readers. Successfully collaborates with stakeholders to accurately present brand in print and online media. Strong writing, communication and computer skills and powerful commitment to diversity and inclusion.

Overview

9
years of professional experience
1
Certification

Work History

Spoken Black Girl Publishing

Editor-in-Chief, Publisher & Communications Specialist
09.2016 - Current

Job overview

  • Found and spearhead mental health and wellness-centered publishing company dedicated to amplifying Black and women of color voices
  • Collaborate with authors to edit manuscripts, providing valuable insights and guidance throughout publishing process
  • Facilitates planning large virtual events online and in person, conducts and market workshops and speaking engagements
  • Conduct training sessions for editors and interns, focusing on editing web content in AP Style to ensure consistent and high-quality output
  • Successfully produce and publish four magazines in both print and online formats, along with creating engaging blog posts, web content, e-books, and courses.
  • Edited and reviewed content for grammar, spelling and punctuation.
  • Delegated and tracked each staff member's assignments and deadlines.
  • Implemented analytics tools to track reader behavior, using data insights to inform content strategy decisions.
  • Coordinated special edition publications, showcasing high-quality content tailored to specific themes or events.
  • Established and implemented workflows to streamline editing processes.
  • Maintained consistent editorial voice throughout all published materials, reinforcing the publication's unique identity.
  • Wrote and created content for various topics and mediums.
  • Developed and maintained editorial standards for content.
  • Managed budget allocation for editorial projects, ensuring optimal use of resources and cost-effective strategies.
  • Solicited and encouraged public reviews and commentaries on trending topics and subjects of topical interest.
  • Established partnerships with relevant organizations, expanding the publication's network and influence within the industry.
  • Increased readership through strategic content planning and audience engagement techniques.
  • Developed strong relationships with industry experts, conducting interviews and securing exclusive content for publication.
  • Optimized online presence by implementing SEO best practices in articles and website design elements.

SBG Publishing

Communications Specialist and Content Strategist
06.2016 - Current

Job overview

  • Strategize and executed comprehensive content plans for mission-driven entities, including Narrative Nation, Humansize & Emory University
  • Freelance as a versatile writer, web designer, and social media manager for high-profile clients
  • Specialize in SEO blog writing for B2B content
  • Collaborate with individual clients to develop websites, content, branding, and graphics tailored to their unique needs.
  • Enhanced brand visibility by strategically developing and executing targeted marketing campaigns.
  • Addressed customer complaints and bad publicity promptly to preserve company integrity and image.
  • Developed and implemented social media strategy to increase engagement and reach new audiences.
  • Collaborated with internal and external stakeholders to identify key messages and create compelling content for press releases and other materials.
  • Coordinated with creative and design teams to produce high-quality visuals for marketing materials.
  • Managed crisis communication situations, protecting company reputation and minimizing negative impact on stakeholders.
  • Created and executed targeted PR campaigns to raise awareness of organization and initiatives.

Teachers & Writers Collaborative

Communications Manager
10.2021 - 02.2022

Job overview

  • Managed comprehensive marketing and social media initiatives, overseeing all correspondence and campaigns for Teachers & Writers Collaborative during a full-time remote contract
  • Facilitated communication efforts for the New York State Poetry Out Loud Competition, ensuring effective outreach and engagement
  • Led a successful website redesign and branding refresh to enhance the organization's online presence and visual identity
  • Edited and published articles for Teachers & Writers Magazine, contributing to the dissemination of valuable content within the literary community
  • Organized virtual workshops and events, demonstrating adaptability in coordinating engaging and effective online programs
  • Maintained and managed two websites, ensuring content accuracy, functionality, and a user-friendly experience for visitors.
  • Taught in-house employees strategies for successful internal and external communications.
  • Built and maintained relationships with key clinicians, spokespeople, advocates and opinion leaders.
  • Cultivated strong corporate image and identity with clear branding.

Poets & Writers Magazine

Social Media and Marketing Associate
02.2016 - 09.2016

Job overview

  • Constructed engaging newsletters for a substantial mailing list of 100K+, ensuring timely and relevant content delivery
  • Managed and curated content across various social media platforms to enhance online presence and audience engagement
  • Corresponded with subscribers and donors, fostering positive relationships and addressing inquiries to maintain strong community connections
  • Utilized Donor Perfect to accurately record and track donations, ensuring precise financial record keeping
  • Played a key role in planning literary events and facilitating contests, contributing to the successful execution of promotional activities and community engagement initiatives.

Cancer Research Institute

Office Assistant
01.2015 - 02.2016

Job overview

  • Processed credit card and check donations, ensuring accurate and timely recording of financial transactions
  • Managed receptionist and administrative duties at the front desk, providing excellent customer service to visitors and callers
  • Utilized Raiser's Edge software to organize and maintain a large donor database, ensuring data accuracy and completeness
  • Assisted in coordinating fundraising activities and events to support the organization's initiatives
  • Collaborated with team members to streamline office processes and enhance overall efficiency.
  • Input data into spreadsheets and databases.
  • Monitored security to help maintain equipment, data and information safety.
  • Managed travel arrangements for executives, resulting in cost savings on flights, accommodations, and transportation services.
  • Created purchase orders and tracked invoices to avoid missed or delayed shipments.
  • Coordinated and scheduled meetings and appointments.
  • Maintained confidentiality in handling sensitive information while performing administrative tasks.
  • Streamlined communication between departments for better collaboration and increased productivity.
  • Increased customer satisfaction by providing professional and courteous front desk support.

Education

Arcadia University
Glenside, PA

Master of Arts from Writing
05.2026

Kenyon College
Gambier, OH

B.A from English, Creative Writing
05.2013

University Overview

Minor: Art History

Skills

  • Editorial Leadership

  • Manuscript Collaboration

  • Event Planning

  • Workshop Facilitation

  • AP Style Editing

  • Magazine Production

  • Content Strategy

  • SEO Writing

  • Web Design

  • Social Media Management

  • Graphic Design

  • Marketing Initiatives

  • Campaign Oversight

  • Website Redesign

  • Branding Refresh

  • Virtual Events Coordination

  • Website Maintenance

  • Newsletter Construction

  • Audience Engagement

  • Donor Relations

  • Formulating and executing strategic communication plans aligned with organizational objectives

  • Cultivating and maintaining strong relationships with journalists, editors, and media outlets

  • Drafting persuasive press releases and coordinating media coverage for events and announcements

  • Developing engaging content for various platforms, including articles, press releases, and social media

  • Developing proactive crisis communication plans and responding effectively during challenging situations

  • Coding

  • SEO Optimization

  • Web design / graphic design

  • Leadership / Management Skills

  • Social Media

  • Mailchimp

  • Wordpress

  • Squarespace

  • Adobe Creative Suite

  • Microsoft Office Suite

  • AirTable

  • Google Applications

  • Raiser’s Edge

  • Donor Perfect

  • Constant Contact

  • Network For Good

  • Canva

  • Survey Monkey

  • Writing

  • Editing

  • Blogging

  • Marketing

  • Copywriting

  • Stress Tolerance

  • Clerical Oversight

  • Google Drive

  • Project Coordination

  • Artwork and Layout Coordination

  • Contract Negotiation

  • Collaborative mindset

Certification

  • Google Digital Marketing & E-commerce Professional Certificate Training - January 2023
  • Youth Mental Health First Aid Training Training - October 2021

Publications

  • Insider
  • Goodrx
  • Well +Good
  • Bold Culture by Streamline Media
  • The Tempest
  • Electric Lit
  • When We Exhale: Anthology Of Black Women Rooted In Ancestral Medicine
  • Moko Magazine
  • Obsidian: Literature & Arts In The African Diaspora
  • Culture Push
  • Free Verse Magazine

References

Available Upon Request

Languages

Spanish
Limited Working

Timeline

Communications Manager

Teachers & Writers Collaborative
10.2021 - 02.2022

Editor-in-Chief, Publisher & Communications Specialist

Spoken Black Girl Publishing
09.2016 - Current

Communications Specialist and Content Strategist

SBG Publishing
06.2016 - Current

Social Media and Marketing Associate

Poets & Writers Magazine
02.2016 - 09.2016

Office Assistant

Cancer Research Institute
01.2015 - 02.2016

Arcadia University

Master of Arts from Writing

Kenyon College

B.A from English, Creative Writing
ROWANA ABBENSETTS-DOBSON