Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Timeline
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Sarah Blendowski

Sarah Blendowski

Rochester,New York

Summary

Dynamic and resourceful professional with a strong background in community engagement and visual storytelling from the U.S. Marine Corps. Proven ability to foster collaboration and drive impactful social change, leveraging skills in problem-solving and emotional intelligence to enhance fundraising efforts and support mental health initiatives. Committed to making a difference through effective outreach and teamwork.

Overview

10
10
years of professional experience

Work History

Volunteer

Gabby Petito Foundation
11.2021 - 11.2022
  • Assisted with special events and programs.
  • Supported engaging, fun, and smooth-running events by helping with organization and planning.
  • Amplified non-profit reach by managing social media campaigns.
  • Facilitated community outreach to expand participation and support.
  • Assisted Nicole Schmidt with strategies for driving discussions and promoting social changes.
  • Used strong interpersonal communication skills to convey information to others regarding healing from domestic violence.
  • Boosted fundraising efforts by assisting with Bead for Change, an initial fundraiser started to assist the Petito/Schmidt family after the loss of their daughter, Gabby Petito

U.S. Marine Corps Combat Photographer

United States Marine Corps
11.2012 - 11.2017
  • Collaborated with public affairs teams to produce compelling visual content for media outlets and internal communications.
  • Developed strong relationships with unit members, fostering trust and collaboration while working in high-pressure situations.
  • Delivered high-quality images under extreme conditions, showcasing adaptability and resourcefulness during missions.

Selected to work an administrative role for Headquarters Marine Corps

  • Meritoriously promoted to Corporal (E4)
  • Recorded daily accountability of Marines belonging to Headquarters Company, 2d Marine Division and forwarded it to Headquarters Battalion Commander, 2d Marine Division.
  • Recorded daily weapons serial number counts of Marines belonging to Headquarters Company, 2d Marine Division and forwarded it to Headquarters Battalion Commander, 2d Marine Division.
  • Administered efficient administrative support for daily unit functions including scheduling meetings, processing travel requests, and managing personnel records.
  • Developed strong relationships with unit members, fostering trust and collaboration while working in high-pressure situations.
  • Coordinated with unit leadership and direct superiors for taskings and managed subordinates to execute.
  • Maintained awareness of subordinates' personal problems and shortcomings, supporting personal and professional growth.
  • Gave individual evaluations based on fitness and combat readiness.
  • Streamlined communication processes for increased efficiency during high-stress operations.
  • Safeguarded classified information by adhering to strict security protocols and maintaining situational awareness in sensitive environments.
  • Enhanced the morale and welfare of fellow Marines through the organization of recreational activities and special events.
  • Promoted a culture of safety, ensuring strict adherence to guidelines and reducing incidents during training exercises.
  • Surveyed company overall health and preparedness.
  • Demonstrated resilience under pressure by consistently performing at a high level despite challenging conditions or unforeseen obstacles.
  • Developed junior Marines into future leaders through consistent mentorship and professional development opportunities.
  • Trained in conflict resolution among subordinates, equals and superiors.
  • Contributed to mission success by providing timely intelligence analysis and recommendations to command staff.
  • Upheld code of conduct and maintained professionalism in stressful situations.
  • Dealt with inter-company conflicts to remove obstacles to troop readiness.
  • Directed maintenance efforts for company assets, guaranteeing optimal performance during critical missions.
  • Developed strong relationships with higher headquarters and external agencies, supporting effective collaboration and mission success.
  • Championed diversity initiatives, promoting an inclusive environment that valued individual strengths and perspectives.
  • Handled administrative requirements, maintained records and submitted operational reports.
  • Prepared and delivered investigative reports and briefings.
  • Mentored junior enlisted personnel, contributing to their professional growth, personal growth, mental health and career progression.

Education

Master of Social Work - Individual And Family Clinical

Liberty University
Lynchburg, VA
01-2027

Bachelor of Science - Psychology

Southern New Hampshire University
Hooksett, NH
05-2022

Skills

  • Problem-solving
  • Empathy and patience
  • Team leadership
  • Multitasking
  • Reliability
  • Emotional awareness
  • Discipline and focus
  • Adaptability and resilience
  • Strong work ethic
  • Time management
  • Adaptability and flexibility
  • Goal setting
  • Attention to detail

Timeline

Volunteer

Gabby Petito Foundation
11.2021 - 11.2022

U.S. Marine Corps Combat Photographer

United States Marine Corps
11.2012 - 11.2017

Master of Social Work - Individual And Family Clinical

Liberty University

Bachelor of Science - Psychology

Southern New Hampshire University