Vanessa Mares-Koch
Houston,TX
Summary
Strategic communications leader who directs high-performing teams, delivers compelling multi-platform content, and drives strong, trust-building media relations to elevate organizational visibility and reputation.
Overview
21
21
years of professional experience
Work History
Assistant Director of Communications
Region 4 Education Center
11.2024 - Current
- Implemented policies and guidelines that governed content accuracy and branding standards.
- Established and maintained relationships with mainstream, tech and trade news organizations and reporters to support communications objectives.
- Crafted and pitched stories to regional and national media outlets to garner mainstream attention.
- Prepare, organize and managed project schedules to produce deliverables and meet deadlines.
- Develop and execute a comprehensive communication plan for the district.
- Create a wide range of content, including press releases, newsletters, website content, and social media posts.
- Ensure consistent and clear communication of the service center's mission, vision, and goals.
- Manage the district's website and social media channels.
Production Curriculum Coordinator & Communications Video Producer
Cypress Fairbanks ISD
07.2015 - 11.2024
- Managed two roles as Production Curriculum Coordinator
- Supported all twelve CFISD High Schools with Audio Video Production curriculum while encouraging industry-standard quality.
- Supported with training, state-of-the-art equipment purchasing, event planning, and community networking and opportunities for teachers and students.
- Planned and executed video content for the district and community.
- Help bring light to all the incredible district accomplishments, making CFISD one of Texas’ premiere school districts.
- Worked flexible hours across night, weekend, and holiday shifts.
- Adaptable individual with exceptional interpersonal skills and talent for building relationships. Known for delivering outstanding service and enhancing client satisfaction. Focused on fostering positive interactions and creating collaborative environment.
Chief Script Writer/Assistant Producer
U.S. National, UTPA CHAPS
12.2014 - 05.2015
- Lead Writer and contributor for the Civil War Podcasts published online used for various educational mediums. Supported producers and engineers with story development, sound design, and production. Worked with on-air talent while creating program content, segments and overall concepting.
Social Media Manager/Report/Anchor
University of Texas Pan American, Bronc Radio/TV
11.2014 - 05.2015
- Managed social media for Bronc Radio/TV. Launched and maintained accounts while creating social strategies that increased and engaged listeners and the community. Also was on-air reporter for UTPA sports. Shot, edited, and wrote scripts for the Time Warner Cable network covering UTPA sports.
Computer Lab Manager/Athletic Coach
Sharyland ISD, Sharyland North Junior High
12.2008 - 07.2013
- Managed all student data and progress while supporting students obtain advanced computer skills and operations. Did grant writing and implemented new programs such as the school morning news show. Also coached volleyball and cross country.
Reporter/Show Host/Producer
KTRH 740, CBS Radio, BMP Radio
04.2005 - 05.2008
- Wrote, produced, anchored, hosted for various radio shows. Wrote various types of stories including breaking news, live reports, PSA’s, commercials, news reports, weekly sports shows and news. Also supported with the pre-production, production and post of all shows.
Education
Master of Arts - Communications
Southern New Hampshire University
Bachelor of Arts - Communications
UTPA
Skills
- public relations
- strategic planning
- media relations
- marketing
- storytelling
- videography
- photography
- writing and editing
- community awareness
- event coordination
- podcast production
Accomplishments
- Contributed to a team recognized with a TSPRA Crystal Commendation Award in the Video Portfolio category, honored as the top entry among peer districts for excellence in storytelling, production quality, and strategic alignment.
- Supported award-winning projects that earned nine TSPRA “Best of Category” recognitions, highlighting consistent creativity, clarity, and impact across multiple communication areas.
- Collaborated with districts and superintendents across Region 4 to tell our story through their perspectives, fostering trust, strengthening regional relationships, and elevating the organization’s brand and reputation.
- Worked closely with team members to produce high-quality, multi-platform content that amplified district initiatives, enhanced stakeholder understanding, and reinforced organizational priorities.
- Assisted in managing and maintaining strong media relationships, contributing to positive, timely coverage that elevated district visibility and credibility.
- Supported coordinated district-wide communication strategies, ensuring clear, unified messaging and effective cross-departmental collaboration.
- Helped enhance workflow and editorial processes, improving efficiency, consistency, and team communication standards.
Timeline
Assistant Director of Communications
Region 4 Education Center
11.2024 - Current
Production Curriculum Coordinator & Communications Video Producer
Cypress Fairbanks ISD
07.2015 - 11.2024
Chief Script Writer/Assistant Producer
U.S. National, UTPA CHAPS
12.2014 - 05.2015
Social Media Manager/Report/Anchor
University of Texas Pan American, Bronc Radio/TV
11.2014 - 05.2015
Computer Lab Manager/Athletic Coach
Sharyland ISD, Sharyland North Junior High
12.2008 - 07.2013
Reporter/Show Host/Producer
KTRH 740, CBS Radio, BMP Radio
04.2005 - 05.2008
Bachelor of Arts - Communications
UTPA
Master of Arts - Communications
Southern New Hampshire University