WEBER SHANDWICK ANNOUNCES NEW HIRES

The Minneapolis-St. Paul office of Weber Shandwick today announced the new hires of six employees in the interactive and emerging media, technology, financial services and corporate, community and public affairs practices.

Andy Keith joined the interactive and emerging media practice as an interactive B2B strategist. Prior to Weber Shandwick, Keith was a strategist providing expertise in Web marketing, online communities and portals, corporate blogging, social media, knowledge management and e-learning for companies such as Macromedia, TechRepublic and Analysts International, as well as several local tech startups. Originally from the Los Angeles area, Keith graduated from California State University at Northridge with a bachelor's degree in theater and also received his master's degree in education from Lewis and Clark College in Portland, Ore.

After completing her internship, Mary Elizabeth Sisk joined the interactive and emerging media practice as an assistant account executive. Prior to Weber Shandwick, Sisk was an event staff member for the South Carolina Governor’s Mansion and was the public relations director for the Daily Gamecock, University of South Carolina’s student newspaper. A native of Greenville, SC, Sisk graduated from the University of South Carolina with a bachelor's degree in public relations and a minor in business with cum laude honors.

Amy Steigman joined the technology practice as an account supervisor. Prior to Weber Shandwick, Steigman managed public relations and membership marketing and communications at Scientific Societies. A native of International Falls, Minn., Steigman earned her bachelor's degree in journalism from the University of Wisconsin-Superior and her master's degree in technical communication from Metropolitan State University. Steigman is also a member of the National Association of Science Writers.

Jessica Walstrom also joined the technology practice as an assistant account executive. Prior to Weber Shandwick, Walstrom held internships with Piper Jaffray, Wells Fargo, Padilla Spears Beardsley, Carlson School of Management and Trammell Crow Company. A native of Anoka, Minn., Walstrom earned her bachelor's degree in journalism with a minor in business management from the University of Minnesota.

Sue Diekman joined the financial services practice as an account director. Prior to Weber Shandwick, Diekman was the senior director of corporate communications for HealthPartners. A native of Brooklyn Park, Minn., Diekman earned her master's degree in business communication from the University of St. Thomas and received her bachelor's degree from the University of Minnesota.

Jeff Falk joined the corporate, community and public affairs practice as a senior account executive. Prior to Weber Shandwick, Falk served as director of communications for the Minnesota State Auditor Rebecca Otto and worked as the broadcast media relations manager in the University of Minnesota's Office of University Relations. He also served as a press aide to Minnesota Gov. Tim Pawlenty. A dual citizen of Germany and the United States, Falk holds a bachelor's degree from Macalester College in St. Paul, Minn.

SHANDWICK PROMOTES RYAN BENBO

The Minneapolis-Saint Paul office of Weber Shandwick today announced the promotion of Ryan Benbo to group manager in the corporate, community and public affairs practice.

Benbo manages key defense and government services accounts, including BAE Systems and Opus Government Programs, providing strategic planning, public affairs, media and community relations and tradeshow media relations support. Benbo also has worked to develop award-winning campaigns within the defense industry by leveraging innovative electronic communications tools and strategies. His media relations efforts have helped to position key clients in the real estate industry to be recognized as leaders in environmental and sustainable building practices.

Benbo is active in his community serving on the Board of Spiritual Guidance at New Creation Lutheran Church in Perham, Minn., and by serving as a mentor and member of the Board of Directors at Perham Kinship Program. A native of Winger, Minn., Benbo earned a bachelor's degree in communications from Northwestern College in Roseville, Minn.

WEBER SHANDWICK HIRES FIVE NEW EMPLOYEES

The Minneapolis-St. Paul office of Weber Shandwick today announced the hiring of Tim Moore, Brianna Gallett, Tara Tierney, Elissa Dingmann and Rebecca Mitchell.

Tim Moore has been hired as a programming supervisor in the interactive and emerging media practice. Prior to joining Weber Shandwick, Moore worked at Chanhassen-based Young America Corporation as a lead programmer analyst where he managed a team of 10 Web and database programmers. A 2000 graduate of the Carlson School of Management at the University of Minnesota, Moore holds a bachelor’s degree in management information systems.

Brianna Gallett joins Weber Shandwick as an account executive after working at St. Paul-based Kohnstamm Communications for more than two years. While at Kohnstamm, Gallett executed public relations campaigns for food and beverage clients including Nordic Ware's annual Bundts Across America baking contest. She is the latest addition to the consumer marketing practice and will be responsible for media relations activities and event coordination for companies including Verizon, Polaroid and the U.S. Army. Gallett graduated from Winona State University with a bachelor’s degree in public relations and a minor in marketing.

Tara Tierney has been hired as an assistant account executive in Weber Shandwick's technology practice after interning since late 2007. As an intern, Tierney worked with national and worldwide organizations including Honeywell Building Solutions and the National Marrow Donor Program. She holds a bachelor's degree in journalism from the University of Wisconsin-Madison. Prior to joining Weber Shandwick, Tierney also interned at Madison Magazine, Wisconsin Angel Network, Madison-based WKOW-TV and Minneapolis-based KARE-TV.

Elissa Dingmann joins Weber Shandwick as an assistant account executive after interning in the corporate community and public affairs practice. During her internship, she provided on-site event support at the Nickelodeon Universe grand opening at the Mall of America. Prior to joining Weber Shandwick, Dingmann interned with Fairview Health Services in the media relations department. The Buffalo, Minn., native holds a bachelor's degree in communications, journalism and mass communications from the University of St. Thomas.

Rebecca Mitchell joins the financial services practice as an assistant account executive following an internship with the group. As an intern, Mitchell worked for clients including Prudential Retirement, MasterCard, Go Direct, the Internal Revenue Service, and U.S. Mint, among others. Prior to joining Weber Shandwick, Mitchell interned in the marketing department of the Ordway Center for the Performing Arts. She graduated magna cum laude from the University of Minnesota with a bachelor's degree in journalism and received a minor in management from the Carlson School of Management.

Job - Padilla Speer Beardsley & Weber Shandwick

Padilla Speer Beardsley - Account Supervisor/Director, Technology

Weber Shandwick - Senior Account Executive, Financial Services

SHANDWICK ANNOUNCES THREE PROMOTIONS

The Minneapolis-Saint Paul office of Weber Shandwick today announced the promotion of three employees in the health care and corporate, community and public affairs practice groups.

Kristen Thistle was promoted to director in the health care group. Thistle is an anchor in the health care practice, co-leading one of the leading professional associations for interventional cardiology, The Society for Cardiovascular Angiography and Interventions. In addition to her client work, Thistle leads the agency’s Employee Action Group and volunteers on the board of the Ronald McDonald House. A native of Wayzata, Minn., Thistle holds a bachelor's degree in speech/communication with summa cum laude honors from St. Olaf College in Northfield, Minn.

Jackie Dummer has been promoted to account executive in the health care practice group. Dummer specializes in media relations, supporting the American College of Surgeons, Ecolab and a variety of other health care clients. A native of Menomonie, Wis., Dummer graduated with a bachelor’s degree in public relations from Northern Michigan University in Marquette, Mich.

Amanda Huneke has been promoted to account executive in the corporate, community and public affairs practice group. Huneke provides project management support and has played an integral role in the launch of campaigns for clients in the government and defense industry. A native of Zumbrota, Minn., Huneke graduated with a bachelor's degree in mass communication with an emphasis in public relations from the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire.

PR CAMPAIGN FOR NATIONAL MARROW DONOR PROGRAM

The Minneapolis-St. Paul office of Weber Shandwick this week kicked off the second year of a campaign for the National Marrow Donor Program® (NMDP). Weber Shandwick is supporting the organization’s Thanks Mom campaign to recruit bone marrow donors who can provide life-saving transplants.

For thousands of people with leukemia, lymphoma and other life-threatening diseases, a marrow transplant offers a second chance at life. Thanks Mom, which runs May 5 – May 19, urges people to join the National Marrow Donor Program Registry online or in person at drives across the country. This year’s goal is to recruit 46,000 new donors.

To support the project, Weber Shandwick is conducting national media relations as well as local outreach in 20 markets across the country. The agency is also conducting outreach to faith-based community leaders and launching a strong online strategy to direct traffic to www.marrow.org, the NMDP’s Web site.

"We're proud to continue our work with the NMDP," said Sara Gavin, president of Weber Shandwick’s Minneapolis-St. Paul office. "This campaign not only provides our team an opportunity to do unique and creative work, but also to truly impacts thousands of lives."

Last year's highly successful Thanks Mom campaign recruited 43,000 new donors to the Registry, more than double the campaign goal of 20,000. The 2007 campaign has garnered several industry awards including PRWeek’s Healthcare Campaign of the Year, the IABC MN Pinnacle Award and the IABC Gold Quill.

Job - Weber Shandwick - Account Executive - Account Supervisor

Weber Shandwick - Account Executive

Weber Shandwick - Account Supervisor

Jobs at Weber Shandwick

Weber Shandwick - Account Director

Weber Shandwick - Account Executive

WEBER SHANDWICK ANNOUNCES EIGHT PROMOTIONS

The Minneapolis-Saint Paul office of Weber Shandwick today announced the promotion of employees in the financial services, technology, corporate, community & public affairs and interactive and emerging media practice groups.

Jennifer McFadden was promoted to account group manager in the financial services group. Since joining the agency in 1999, McFadden has been providing public relations counsel and support to financial service organizations, as well as government clients, who are looking to raise public awareness and drive behavior change. McFadden is a superior manager of her teams and consistently delivers high-quality work and client service. In addition, she also serves on Weber Shandwick’s internal public relations committee and North American Financial Services practice. Prior to joining Weber Shandwick, McFadden was an investor relations representative for Lutheran Brotherhood Securities Corporation (now Thrivent Financial for Lutherans). A native of Port Byron, Ill., she earned her bachelor’s degree in English and communication from Luther College in Decorah, Iowa.

Nora Hayes has been promoted to account supervisor in the financial services group. Hayes specializes in collateral development, media relations and special event planning for clients in the retirement industry. She is a gifted project manager who brings tremendous organization, client service and counsel to all of her accounts. In addition to her work on client accounts, Hayes leads Weber Shandwick’s pro bono work with a local non-profit legal services organization servicing Minnesota’s immigrant population. She is also currently the treasurer of Minnesota Women in Marketing and Communications. A native of Jackson, Mich., Hayes received a bachelor’s degree in anthropology from the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor, Mich., and holds a certificate in business communications from the University of St. Thomas in St. Paul, Minn.

Jessi Newman was promoted to senior account executive in the financial services group. Newman provides strategic counsel and project and account management for several clients, driving the development of deliverables and managing teams for financial services organization and government clients. She is a skilled media relations professional with a strong work ethic and exceptional client service. In addition, Newman lends her leadership skills to the agency’s office-wide United Way campaign and Employee Action Group. A native of Orono, Minn., Newman holds a bachelor’s degree in sociology and a certificate in women’s studies from the University of Wisconsin-Madison.

Carolyn Parsons has been promoted to account group manager in the corporate, community & public affairs practice. Parsons provides project management, creative and strategic development and implementation of public relations programs on behalf of several clients. In addition to her impressive client work, Parsons serves as a strong ambassador for Weber Shandwick in the community. She has led pro bono efforts and represents the agency in the current class of the Minneapolis Regional Chamber's Leadership Twin Cities. Within Weber Shandwick, Parsons spearheads In Balance, an employee-focused work-life balance program and served a two-year reign as a member of the agency’s Employee Action Group. A native of Stillwater, Minn., Parsons holds a bachelor's degree in communications from the College of Saint Benedict in St. Joseph, Minn.

Stephanie Connolly has been promoted to account executive in the corporate community & public affairs practice. Connolly specializes in media relations, public awareness and affairs and tradeshows for her clients. She brings a high level of enthusiasm, creativity and a keen understanding for how to deliver great results to all of her account teams. Connolly also lends her media relations expertise to the agency’s pro bono work with a local non-profit organization providing high quality programs to inner city youth. A native of St. Paul, Minn., Connolly holds a bachelor’s degree in political science and communication from the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse.

Albert Leung was promoted to account executive in the technology practice. Leung provides project management support and implementation of media outreach programs on behalf of his technology clients. His strong work ethic, exceptional writing skills and calm demeanor have earned Leung distinction among his team members and clients. In addition to his client work, Leung also serves on Weber Shandwick’s internal public relations committee. A native of New Hope, MN, Leung holds a bachelor’s degree in strategic communications with an emphasis in public relations from the University of Minnesota in Minneapolis, Minn.

Josh Purdy has been promoted to account executive in the technology practice. Purdy focuses on writing, analyst relations and tradeshow and media relations for technology organizations. In addition to delivering strong client service, he is a highly successful media relations professional. Purdy is also actively involved in the agency’s Employee Action Group. A native of Ogden, IA, Purdy holds a bachelor’s degree in public relations from Iowa State University in Ames, Iowa.

Leah Janz was promoted to senior graphic designer in the interactive and emerging media group. Janz designs and produces print materials for clients, including logo designs, event invites and collateral, press kits, brochures, campaign materials, newsletters and signage. Janz’s strong design skills enable her to understand her client’s communication needs and make them stand out from the crowd. A native of Tintah, Minn., Janz holds a bachelor’s degree in graphic design with summa cum laude honors from the University of Minnesota in Minneapolis, Minn.

Weber to launch online health and wellness program for Blue Cross of Idaho

The Minneapolis-St. Paul office of Weber Shandwick has been tapped by Blue Cross of Idaho to help launch its new Web-based health and well-being program, Well Connected. The new program provides members with various personal health tools including a cost of care estimate, coverage advisor to compare plans and coverage, as well as an interactive personal health assessment tool that provides members with personalized recommendations on leading a healthier lifestyle.

Weber Shandwick will develop targeted communication materials for Blue Cross’s key audiences to help promote the new program and drive participation among members and employers. The package of supporting materials includes an array of tools for salespeople and a program introduction kit for human resources personnel to help implement the program, which includes posters, brochures and best practices.

"We're proud to help Blue Cross of Idaho launch this important new initiative," said Sara Gavin, president of Weber Shandwick's Minneapolis-St. Paul office. “With the rising costs of health care, we strongly believe in the work that Blue Cross is doing to empower people to take charge of their health.”

Pearson Promoted to Senior VP at Weber

The Minneapolis-St. Paul office of Weber Shandwick today announced the promotion of Aaron Pearson to senior vice president in its technology practice.

Since joining Weber Shandwick in 1997, Pearson has been instrumental in building strong relationships with key technology accounts. Pearson specializes in developing trade media relations, analyst relations and vertical market programs primarily for enterprise technology companies.

"Aaron has contributed significantly to the success of our technology practice in Minneapolis and other offices around the world. He brings depth-of-knowledge and a deep understanding of the enterprise software market to our clients," said Sara Gavin, President of Weber Shandwick’s Minneapolis-St. Paul office.

Before joining Weber Shandwick, Pearson worked at Minneapolis-based Dillon Advertising & Public Relations. He holds a master’s in marketing from the University of Minnesota’s Carlson School of Management. He received his bachelor’s in journalism magna cum laude from the University of Minnesota’s School of Journalism & Mass Communications.

Job - Vice President, Medical Devices, Weber Shandwick

Vice President, Medical Devices, Weber Shandwick

16 new hires at Weber

The Minneapolis-St. Paul office of Weber Shandwick today announced the new hires of 16 employees in the interactive and emerging media, financial services, corporate, community and public affairs, technology, consumer marketing and health care practices.

After completing her internship, Leslie Sorum joined the interactive and emerging media practice as junior designer. Prior to Weber Shandwick, Sorum interned at several companies gaining experience in media buying, promotions, and Web development. A native of New Richmond, Wis., Sorum graduated with a bachelor's degree in journalism and mass communications with an emphasis in advertising and design from the University of Wisconsin- Madison.

Roman Gaponenko joined the interactive and emerging media practice as a digital strategy supervisor. Prior to Weber Shandwick, Gaponenko was an account supervisor of digital marketing at Fleishman-Hillard in Washington, D.C. Gaponenko holds a bachelor’s degree in regional studies from Moscow State University, and has also studied at University of Northern Iowa and Georgetown University.

Tony Saucier joined the consumer marketing practice as an account supervisor. Prior to Weber Shandwick, Saucier was a senior associate at Exponent PR. A native of Bangor, Maine, Saucier graduated from the University of Maine, and holds a bachelor’s degree in sociology.

Marie Kurth joined the consumer marketing practice as an assistant account executive. Prior to Weber Shandwick, Kurth held three communications internships abroad in Germany. A native of Maple Plain, Minn., Kurth holds a bachelor's degree in English print journalism and German from Concordia College.

Amy Tieder joined the health care practice as an account supervisor. Prior to Weber Shandwick, Tieder was the media relations and marketing specialist at Mayo Clinic. A native of Rochester, Minn., Tieder holds a bachelor's degree in English from the University of Minnesota.

Sarah Stakston joined the health care practice as a senior account executive. Prior to Weber Shandwick, Stakston work in the health care and medical device practice at Padilla Spear Beardsley. A native of Woodbury, Minn., Stakston holds a bachelor’s degree in public relations and business management from the University of Minnesota. Stakston is currently pursuing an MBA at Carlson School of Management at the University of Minnesota.

After completing her internship, Rebecca Wright joined the health care practice as an assistant account executive. Prior to Weber Shandwick, Wright interned at Ryan Partnership. A native of Edina, Minn., Wright holds a bachelor’s degree in journalism and mass communication and communication studies from the University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA.

After completing her internship, Helga Radio joined the health care practice as an assistant account executive. Prior to Weber Shandwick, Radio was a public relations and marketing intern at Fairview Partners. A native of Shoreview, Minn., Radio holds a bachelor's degree in journalism and mass communications with an emphasis in public relations from Iowa State University in Ames, Iowa.

Anne Torkelson joined the technology practice as an assistant account executive. A 2007 cum laude graduate of St. Olaf College in Northfield, Minn., Torkelson holds a bachelor’s degree in English and religion with a media studies concentration. Before joining Weber Shandwick, she interned in internal communications at Wells Fargo Business Credit. Anne has also interned at Minneapolis Downtown Journal and Southwest Journal, City Pages and at publishers Milkweed Editions and Fairview Press. While at St. Olaf, Torkelson held multiple leadership positions on the staff of both the college newspaper and literary journal.

April Nelson joined the financial services practice as a senior account executive. Prior to Weber Shandwick, Nelson was a public relations specialist at Education Minnesota. A native of Langdon, N.D., Nelson holds a bachelor’s degree in advertising/public relations with a minor in English writing from Concordia College.

Amy Reasoner joined the financial services practice as an account supervisor. Prior to Weber Shandwick, Reasoner was in charge of grassroots initiatives at the Office of Government and Community Relations at the University of Minnesota. A native of St. Paul, Minn., Reasoner holds a bachelor’s degree in political science from the University of Wisconsin-Madison in Madison, Wis.

After completing her internship, Sarah Rydland joined the financial services practice as an assistant account executive. Prior to Weber Shandwick, Rydland interned with the Charities Review Council in St. Paul. A native of Chanhassen, Minn., Rydland holds a bachelor's degree in public relations and journalism from the University of Minnesota.

After completing his internship, John Poferl joined the financial services practice as an assistant account executive. A native of Oakdale, Minn., Poferl holds a bachelor's degree in mass communications with a public relations emphasis from St. Cloud State University.

Michelle Holford joined the corporate, community and public affairs practice as an account supervisor. Prior to Weber Shandwick, Holford was the community relations director at the Burnsville Eagan Savage School District. A native of Gresham, Ore., Holford holds a bachelor's degree in communications/public relations from Pacific Lutheran University in Tacoma, Wash., and holds a master’s degree in higher education administration from the University of Wisconsin-Lacrosse.

Ben Maurer joined the corporate, community and public affairs practice as a senior account executive. Prior to Weber Shandwick, Maurer worked for the Minnesota Vikings for six years. A native of Pierz, Minn., Maurer holds a bachelor's degree in communications from St. John’s University in Collegeville, Minn.

Meg Paschich joined the corporate, community and public affairs practice as a senior account executive. Paschich is based in Chicago, but works for the agency's Minneapolis-St. Paul office. Prior to Weber Shandwick, Paschich worked on financial, investor relations and corporate clients at Edelman. A native of El Paso, Texas, Paschich holds a bachelor's degree in English from the University of Texas in Austin and a master's degree in public relations from DePaul University. Paschich is also actively involved with the Junior League of Chicago.

KELASH JOINS WEBER SHANDWICK AS VICE PRESIDENT

The Minneapolis office of Weber Shandwick today announced that Paul Kelash has joined the firm as vice president in its financial services practice.

Kelash brings to his new position considerable strengths in asset management and retirement services and will play a key role in new business development. In addition, he will participate in the firm’s North American Financial Services industry practice group, which involves 20 Weber Shandwick offices in North America and is led out of Minneapolis. Kelash, who lived in London earlier in his career, will help bridge the North American industry practice group’s business growth strategies with Weber Shandwick’s London office, another key center of excellence in the firm’s growing worldwide presence in the financial services industry.

"The Minneapolis office of Weber Shandwick has long been considered a key player in the financial services industry -- in our local market, on the national level and even on a global level," said Barb Iverson, president of the North American Financial Services practice group. "Paul's caliber, experience and expertise further strengthens our already very strong position in the marketplace. We are positively thrilled Paul will be joining us."

For the past five-and-a-half years, Kelash has directed public relations and staff communications for Thrivent Financial for Lutherans, a Fortune 500 organization with nearly three million member-clients, more than $6 billion in revenue and $73.2 billion in assets under management. Under Kelash’s leadership, Thrivent’s 10-person PR and corporate communications staff was responsible for PR programs for the 2,500+ national sales force and 1,400 volunteer chapters, and also for supporting Thrivent’s government relations PR strategies and initiatives. In addition, Kelash maintains a Series 7 securities broker license from FINRA.

Before joining Thrivent in 2002, Kelash worked in San Francisco as a principal/communications strategist for Barclays Global Investors, one of the world’s largest investment managers. While at Barclays, he was responsible for global institutional client publications, white papers and commentary, and he also directed content development for the company’s sales support materials. He launched and edited Investment Insights, a white paper series that continues today as the key communications vehicle to demonstrate the firm’s investment expertise.

Earlier in his career, he served as an executive editor at Miller Freeman, a San Francisco-based magazine and newsletter publisher; Buraff Publications, a leading publisher of legal and business publications in Washington, D.C.; and as a reporter and senior editor at American Banker-Bond Buyer, also in Washington. A native of Minneapolis, Kelash holds a master’s degree in foreign affairs from the University of Virginia and a bachelor’s degree in English from the University of St. Thomas in St. Paul.

Nonprofits gain valuable communications tools during free day-long workshop

On Saturday, February 9th, from 8:00 a.m. - 2:15 p.m., Weber Shandwick will be hosting its 16th annual Telling Your Story workshop for local non-profit organizations at the University of St. Thomas in St. Paul. The free day-long workshop will provide over 25 local non-profits skills they can use to address their organization’s primary communications challenges.

The organizations will have the opportunity to participate in a variety of sessions including, "How to Get Value for Your Web Site" and "I Laughed, I Cried: Creating a Compelling Nonprofit video." CEO and founder of Minnpost.com, Joel Kramer will also address the non-profits about the changing landscape of the media in the Twin Cities.

In addition, the organizations will have the opportunity to participate in a one-on-one consulting session with a Weber Shandwick employee to address any specific communication needs and questions. This year's event is co-sponsored by the St. Thomas chapter of the Public Relations Student Society of America (PRSSA).

For more information on this event contact Tara Tierney at Weber Shandwick.

Carlson and Tuthill promoted at Weber Shandwick

The Twin Cities office of Weber Shandwick today announced the promotions of two employees in the consumer marketing and corporate, community and public affairs practices.

Jessica Carlson, who joined the agency in 2005, has been promoted from account executive to senior account executive in the consumer marketing practice. Carlson, an Eagan, Minn. native, graduated with a bachelor's degree in English and management studies from St. Olaf Collage in Northfield, Minn.

Stacey Tuthill, who joined the agency in August 2006 as an intern, has been promoted from assistant account executive to account executive in the corporate, community and public affairs practice. In addition to her work on client accounts, Tuthill is a member of the Weber Shandwick | Minneapolis office Employee Action Group. A native of Faribault, Minn., Tuthill graduated from the College of St. Catherine in St. Paul, Minn., and holds a bachelor’s degree in business entrepreneurship.

RANDY SANDS PROMOTED TO EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT AT WEBER SHANDWICK

Expanding Expertise in Financial Services Practice

The Twin Cities office of Weber Shandwick today announced the promotion of Randy Sands to executive vice president in the financial services practice group.

Since joining the firm in 1999, Sands has led successful account teams for many of Weber Shandwick’s top business-to-business and government clients, including the Internal Revenue Service, Allianz Life Insurance Company of North America and Prudential Retirement. Sands recently led the firm’s efforts to win the U.S. Census Bureau account. Prior to joining Weber Shandwick, he managed communications for the commercial business unit of Travelers (previously The St. Paul Companies).

With more than 20 years of public relations, marketing and communications experience, Sands brings to his new position a long history of managing strategic communications programs for Weber Shandwick’s numerous government, retirement and other financial services clients, as well as experience in crisis communications.

"Randy is a significant contributor to the success of our financial services practice – both in Minneapolis and well beyond – with regard to leadership, client service, account management and new business," said Barb Iverson, president of Weber Shandwick’s North American financial services practice.

Sands is a graduate of the University of Kansas. He also is a member of the Public Relations Society of America.

Weber Shandwick Promotions

The Twin Cities office of Weber Shandwick today announced the promotion of employees in the consumer marketing and corporate, community and public affairs practices.

Whitney Mares has been promoted to account supervisor from senior account executive in the consumer marketing practice group. Whitney helps lead projects and accounts for clients such as The Allstate Foundation, the United States Army and a number of food and beverage companies.

Prior to joining Weber Shandwick in 2006, Whitney established a public relations department for the nation's top nonprofit student lender, and managed a consumer outreach and sampling campaign for Ben & Jerry's Ice Cream as well as trendspotting and market research for liquor giant Brown-Forman. Whitney holds a master's degree in strategic public relations from the University of Southern California and a bachelor's degree in journalism from Ithaca College.

Angela Gassett has been promoted to account executive from assistant account executive in the corporate, community and public affairs practice group. Gassett provides writing and media relations support to clients including The Opus Group, National Marrow Donor Program, a Minneapolis-Saint Paul branding campaign and the REACH Project.

Gassett is also active in the Twin Cities office’s Employee Action Group (EAG) and helps organize the agency's annual "Telling Your Story Workshop," a day-long public relations workshop offering free counsel to local non-profit organizations. A native of Milaca, Minn., Gassett holds a bachelor's degree in public relations and psychology from the University of St. Thomas. She is an active member of the St. Thomas Young Alumni Council.

New Hires at Weber Shandwick

The Twin Cities office of Weber Shandwick today announced the hires of new employees in the health care, technology, financial services and interactive and emerging media practices.

Cameron Potts joined the health care practice group as an account manager, focusing on hospital and health care systems and device manufacturing accounts. Potts has more than eight years of expertise in strategic public relations activities related to hospitals and health care systems. Prior to joining Weber Shandwick, he worked as the director of communications and marketing for Fairview Southdale Hospital in Edina, Minn. and also as the communications director for the Minnesota Hospital Association in St. Paul, Minn. A native of Winnipeg, Manitoba, Potts earned a bachelor’s degree in journalism from the University of North Dakota in Grand Forks, N.D. and also holds an M.B.A. from the University of St. Thomas in Minneapolis.

Ranae Sandholm joined the technology practice group as an account supervisor, specializing in public relations strategy development, vertical and trade media engagement and industry analyst relations for technology and business-to-business clients. Before joining Weber Shandwick, Sandholm worked for Waggener Edstrom Worldwide in Seattle. In addition, she also spent part of her career at Text 100 in Seattle. An Iowa native, she received bachelor degrees in journalism and mass communication and communication studies from the University of Iowa in Iowa City, Iowa.

Nora Hayes joined the financial services practice group as a senior account executive working with clients in the retirement industry. She specializes in product packaging, collateral development, media relations and special event planning. Prior to joining Weber Shandwick, Hayes worked as a senior marketing specialist at Phillips Electronics in Plymouth, Minn. and as the director of marketing and communications at Minnesota Independent School Forum in St. Paul, Minn. A native of Jackson, Mich., Hayes received a bachelor’s degree in anthropology from the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor, Mich. and holds a certificate in business communications form the University of St. Thomas in St. Paul, Minn. She also is currently the treasurer of Minnesota Women in Marketing and Communications.

Angie Koehn joined the interactive and emerging media practice group as a graphic designer, specializing in print designs for clients in the consumer, financial services, health care, technology and corporate, community and public affairs practice groups. Before joining Weber Shandwick, she was a graphic designer for BoldMarketing in St. Paul, Minn. A native of Eau Claire, Wis., Koehn holds a bachelor’s degree in business and advertising from the University of Saint Thomas in St. Paul, Minn. and a bachelor’s degree in graphic design from the University of Minnesota in Minneapolis.

Judy Abel joined the interactive and emerging media practice group as a print and interactive project manager, overseeing print designs, Websites and newsletters for clients in all practice groups. Prior to joining Weber Shandwick, Abel worked at Fleishman-Hillard Digital in Washington, D.C. as a designer and production artist. A native of Jackson, Miss., she graduated with a bachelor’s degree in English literature and European Cultural Studies form Brandeis University in Waltham, Mass. and also holds an M.A. in International Peace and Conflict Resolution from American University in Washington, D.C.

Weber announces Four Promotions

The Twin Cities office of Weber Shandwick today announced the promotion of employees in the financial services and health care practices.

Tonya Tennessen was promoted to account supervisor in the financial services practice. Having joined Weber Shandwick last year, Tennessen plays a key role on the award-winning Go Direct campaign of the U.S. Department of the Treasury. She manages the campaign's national media and partner outreach efforts. Tennessen has also served on Weber Shandwick's pro bono client selection committee and currently directs Weber Shandwick's pro bono work with a local non-profit legal services organization servicing Minnesota's immigrant population. A native of Minneapolis, Minn., Tennessen holds a bachelor's degree in English, Economics and secondary English Education from the University of Wisconsin-Madison.

The health care practice has promoted Toccara Torres, Stacy Buehner and Rachel Lonsdale from assistant account executives to account executives.

Torres works on the American College of Surgeons and the Coalition for Pulmonary Fibrosis accounts providing account management, media relations, newsletter editing and production and event coordination. In addition to her work on client accounts, Torres is a member of the Weber Shandwick Minneapolis office United Way committee as well as the Employee Action Group (EAG) Green Committee, which supports office-wide, environmentally friendly initiatives. A native of St. Peter, Minn., Torres graduated from Macalester College with a bachelor's degree in communications and media studies.

Buehner plays a key role on several health care accounts including the Society for Cardiovascular Angiography and Interventions, Hazelden Foundation, American College of Surgeons, Prime Therapeutics, Boston Scientific and Army Healthcare (AMEDD). She provides media relations and writing expertise to all of her clients and recently helped manage a national campaign for the Hazelden Foundation. Prior to joining Weber Shandwick, Buehner held an internship at the University of Minnesota Medical Center, Fairview in the communications department. Originally from Canistota, S.D., Buehner graduated from the University of Minnesota with a bachelor's degree in journalism focusing on public relations.

Lonsdale plays a key role on the Boston Scientific and Carlson Wagonlit Travel account teams where she provides media relations, research and analysis and strategic planning support. She also manages media tour booking for both of these clients. A native of Eau Claire, Wis., Lonsdale graduated from the University of Wisconsin-Madison with a bachelor's degree in Communication Arts and Political Science.