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With newsrooms shifting focus and so much competing content online, how can organizations "Keep it Fresh" when it comes to storytelling on their owned channels: blogs, newsletters, social media and more? We'll hear from local cultural institutions that have successfully used storytelling to promote their organizations. Find out the latest storytelling trends they're using on their owned channels.
PANELISTS:
John VanderHaagen, Director of Communications, Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park
As Director of Communications at Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park, John VanderHaagen spearheads strategic initiatives and oversees the team involved in all employee and guest-facing communications, including public relations, marketing and advertising, social media, website, printed materials and signage. John has over two decades of experience in the arts, sports and live entertainment fields. A WMPRSA member, John serves on the board of Byron Center Public Schools Career and Technical Education (CTE) and is a past board president of the Grand Rapids Cultural Marketing Group.
Elizabeth Payne, Director of Communications, Grand Rapids Art Museum
Elizabeth Payne is a strategic communications professional with over ten years of experience in the arts non-profit sector. As Director of Communications at the Grand Rapids Art Museum (GRAM), Elizabeth develops and executes communications strategies that achieve organizational goals and growth, supporting the Museum’s people-centered exhibitions, educational programs, community engagement initiatives, membership, and philanthropy. She serves on GRAM’s leadership and tactical teams, helping to shape the Museum’s strategic direction and build an organizational culture of innovation, inclusion, and collaboration.
Elizabeth joined GRAM’s Communications team in 2015 before being promoted to Communications Manager in 2017. Her previous experience includes working with Grand Rapids-based startup accelerator Start Garden on their digital content strategy and working alongside the marketing team at the Grand Rapids Symphony to support their events and develop compelling digital campaigns.
Elizabeth is a member of the American Marketing Association, American Alliance of Museums, and Cultural Marketing Group Grand Rapids. She is a Michigan native and holds a bachelor’s degree in marketing from Grand Valley State University.
Katie Lieto, Vice President of Marketing, Experience Grand Rapids
Kate Lieto is the Vice President of Marketing at Experience Grand Rapids, the Destination Marketing Organization for Kent County, MI. She sets strategies and budgets for the marketing team while managing an ever-growing staff of talented people dedicated to promoting Grand Rapids/Kent County as a prime travel destination. She also partners with community resources to make this the best place it can be for visitors and residents alike, and she propelled the launch of such popular programs as Restaurant Week GR, the Beer City Brewsader® passport and the Flights of Flavor® food & drink pass.
Kate joined EXGR as an intern while attending Grand Valley State University, where she earned a BBA with an emphasis in Marketing and Management. She worked her way up through the organization to her current position, earning the nickname “Collaboration Queen” for her synergistic approach to working with colleagues and industry partners. She attained a Master of Business Administration from Western Michigan University while working full-time at EXGR.
Jenny Luth, Director of Partnerships + Outreach, Amplify GR
Jenny Luth has nearly 20 years of experience in public relations and strategic communications in agency, corporate and nonprofit settings. As a neighbor of the Amplify GR service area, she has spent significant time volunteering with Amplify GR and its partners to ensure equitable outcomes for the community.
She most recently served as communications manager for Amplify GR and the West Michigan Center for Arts and Technology. With her nonprofit and industry experience, Jenny is well-positioned for this crucial role with an organization based in the community where she grew up.
Jenny directs all partnership activities for Amplify GR, focusing on HUB 07, a new community center that will welcome 15 partners to the space in the coming year. She also plays a pivotal role in enhancing communication with neighbors and encouraging their participation in the amenities that enrich Boston Square and Madison Square. Additionally, Jenny is dedicated to empowering community members to take leadership roles in shaping the future of their neighborhoods.
SCHEDULE & VENUE
Oak Theater, Welcome Center
8:30-9:00 a.m. Registration and networking
9:00-10:00 a.m. Program
REGISTRATION
Members $25
Future Members: $35
Students and Un-/Under-employed: Free
AMA Members: $25
Please register by May 13.