Sign In

Jennifer Girdish

Communications Director at If/When/How

Professional Background

Jennifer Girdish is a multifaceted communications expert with a specialization in progressive issues, particularly focused on reproductive health and education. Her adept ability to convey important messages through various channels has propelled her career forward, allowing her to serve in key roles that require strategic communication planning, digital campaigns, and impactful messaging. Jennifer has held numerous high-profile positions in the realm of communications.

In her current role as the Director of Communications at If/When/How, she spearheads initiatives that engage audiences on critical reproductive rights issues. Her experience as a Communications Consultant at Self, along with her significant tenure as Communications Director at ConwayStrategic, LLC, showcases her versatility and problem-solving skills in developing effective communication strategies for diverse clients. Jennifer has also served as the Senior Director of Voice at Physicians for Reproductive Health, where she played a pivotal role in advocating for patient-centered reproductive health policies.

Throughout her impressive career, Jennifer has held influential positions, such as the Director of Communications at Catholics for Choice, where she was instrumental in amplifying the organization's messaging. Prior to these roles, she developed her writing and editorial skills as a Senior Writer/Editor at Handwriting Without Tears and a Senior Technical Editor at US Courts. Jennifer's background also includes valuable insights into the non-profit sector, having worked as the Public Relations Coordinator at SAFEHOME and gained her early experience as the Communications Assistant at SafePlace.

Together, these roles reflect her commitment and dedication to advocating for progressive causes through innovative communication.

Education and Achievements

Jennifer Girdish's academic background is as rich and diverse as her professional experience. She began her studies at St. Andrews College, laying a solid foundation for her future endeavors. Continuing with her educational journey, she earned a Bachelor's Degree in Writing and Film Studies at the University of Pittsburgh, which equipped her with essential storytelling and critical thinking skills. Her pursuit of knowledge didn’t stop there; she achieved a Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in Creative Writing, with a concentration in creative nonfiction from Lesley University. This academic rigor has profoundly shaped her writing style, allowing her to craft compelling narratives that resonate strongly with readers.

Jennifer's written work has been widely recognized and featured in esteemed publications, further solidifying her status as a notable communicator. Her essays and articles have appeared in a variety of outlets, including McSweeney's, The Rumpus, The Morning News, The Awl, The Hairpin, and The Washington Post. Her contributions to Washington City Paper, GOOD Magazine, Post Road magazine, Trop Magazine, and Swimmingly demonstrate her ability to engage with diverse topics while maintaining a distinct voice. One of her notable achievements includes a citation in the 2011 Best American Essay anthology, highlighting her exceptional ability to articulate critical issues.

In addition, Jennifer's writing on domestic violence has gained recognition, receiving a citation in the Progressive Style Guide by Sum of Us. This acknowledgment underlines her commitment to shedding light on important social issues through her craft.

Notable Achievements

  • Director Of Communications at If/When/How: Jennifer leads communication efforts that promote reproductive rights and health, ensuring their messaging reaches a wide audience effectively.
  • Communications Consultant at Self: As a consultant, she provided expert advice on strategic communication practices to various organizations, enhancing their outreach initiatives.
  • Communications Director at ConwayStrategic, LLC: In this role, she devised communication strategies that aligned with her clients' goals, fostering impactful relationships with stakeholders.
  • Senior Director, Voice at Physicians for Reproductive Health: Jennifer advocated for reproductive health issues, crafting messages that amplified the organization's voice in policy discussions.
  • Award-winning Writer: Her work has been published in reputable platforms, and her essay was notably referenced in a prominent anthology, showcasing her writing prowess.

Through these achievements, Jennifer Girdish has established herself not only as a skilled communicator but also as a passionate advocate for vital social issues, primarily in reproductive health and education. Her ability to blend her writing skills with strategic communication has made her a sought-after expert in her field.

Related Questions

How did Jennifer Girdish develop her expertise in communications for progressive issues?
What motivated Jennifer Girdish to focus on reproductive health and education in her career?
Can Jennifer Girdish share insights on developing a successful strategic communications plan?
What are Jennifer Girdish's most significant writing achievements and their impact?
How has Jennifer Girdish's education influenced her professional journey in communications?
Jennifer Girdish
Add to my network

Location

Washington, District of Columbia, United States