Meet the Team: Q&A with Adrienne
Get to know one of our communications experts.
1. What inspired your communications journey?
I’ve always been drawn to storytelling and the power it has to bring communities together and inspire change. During college, one of my professors at Pepperdine University encouraged me to do whatever I could to “be a part of a story larger than your own”—a piece of advice that has stayed with me ever since. After graduating, I knew I wanted to help others advance good around the world. Today, nearly 15 years later, I’m grateful that my entire career has been focused on using my passion for communication to help elevate nonprofits so they can achieve their missions and make a meaningful impact.
2. What is a daily habit or ritual that sets you up for success each day?
My best days start when I carve out time to go for a run and create space to reflect on the day ahead. I’m a natural planner, so I like to forecast how I want to feel by the end of the day by accomplishing particular tasks to ensure my focus aligns with what matters most. The combination of physical activity and intentional planning helps me stay present and gives me energy to tackle the day.
3. What do you think is the most important aspect of communications for nonprofits or faith-based organizations?
Clarity! Clarity in your mission and clarity in your message. I think this is the most important aspect of communications for any organization and really any person living in today’s distracted world. We are bombarded by content all day long, and so much of it is confusing and uninspiring. Breaking through that noise with a clear and compelling message is the best chance we have at influencing perception and inspiring action.
4. What is your current favorite book and why?
I can’t say this enough: Smart Brevity: The Power of Saying More With Less changed my life. This book not only impacted how I think and write professionally, but the principles and tips even transformed how I communicate with family and friends. Your emails, texts and Slack messages will never be the same again, and your team will thank you. It’s a fantastically clear “how-to” guide for communicating in our modern age. (You can read more about the influence it had on our team here.)
5. What is one quote you live by?
Ralph Waldo Emerson once wrote, “To leave the world a bit better…that is to have succeeded.” I love it because it reminds me to always look for ways—big and small—to make a positive impact on the people and places around me.