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Viki (Askounis) Conner

Strategic communications leader, PhD student, and digital sociologist working to advance organizational and social change

Professional Background

Viki (Askounis) Conner is a seasoned professional with over twenty years of extensive experience in corporate and organizational communications. Her impressive career spans a multitude of sectors, including higher education, pharmaceuticals, consumer products, retail, and financial services. Viki's expertise lies in architecting compelling organizational brands and narratives, effectively intertwining business acumen, policy knowledge, and a nuanced understanding of the sociology behind storytelling.

As a communications advisor, Viki has collaborated with major universities and Fortune 500 companies, focusing on reputation management, brand strategy, and the positioning of executive leadership. She holds a demonstrated track record of leading research-driven communication programs that significantly transform stakeholder perceptions, ultimately helping organizations to advance their reputations effectively.

Born and raised in downtown Chicago, Viki possesses international work experience that enriches her diverse and inclusive approach to organizational strategy and communications planning. Her commitment to civic engagement informs her work, allowing her to create communications strategies that resonate with a wide array of audiences.

Education and Achievements

Viki's educational background showcases her dedication to the fields of communication and social sciences. She earned a Master of Arts (MA) in Social Sciences, specializing in Sociology, from the prestigious University of Chicago. Additionally, she pursued her Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Communication at the University of Illinois Chicago, where she developed a deep understanding of the critical components of effective communication strategies.

Her academic journey began at Duke University, where she obtained a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) with a double major in Public Policy Studies and French Studies, alongside a minor in Political Science. This multifaceted education laid the groundwork for her successful career in communications. Viki also attended the Latin School of Chicago for her high school education and enhanced her skills at the New York University School of Continuing and Professional Studies.

Notable Roles and Contributions

Throughout her career, Viki has held numerous prominent positions, each contributing to her expertise and credibility within the industry. She founded Racine Strategies, LLC, serving as the Principal, where she utilized her insights in communications and organizational strategy to benefit various clients.

Viki has also worked as the Senior Associate Dean of Communications and Public Affairs at the Harris School of Public Policy at the University of Chicago, a role that underscores her strong link to academia. Prior to this, she was the Associate Dean for Communications and Marketing at the same institution, where she played a central role in advancing its communications initiatives.

Her business acumen was further honed at Edelman, a leading global communications firm, where Viki held several positions ranging from Senior Vice President to Account Executive. Here, she demonstrated her ability to strategize and implement impactful communication plans for various clients.

Notable organizations she has worked with include high-profile clients such as adidas AG, AstraZeneca, Charles Schwab, CME Group, Fannie Mae, Gap Inc., GE Capital, Pfizer, SC Johnson, The University of Chicago, Tate & Lyle, and Toys “R” Us. Each partnership has contributed to her robust portfolio, evidencing her capacity to enhance reputation and drive brand recognition in a competitive marketplace.

Community Engagement and Commitment to Diversity

Viki's commitment to civic engagement is a defining attribute of her professional journey. Striving to bring awareness to diverse perspectives, she integrates inclusivity into her communications strategies, ensuring that all stakeholders are represented and informed.

Her knowledge in storytelling has proven invaluable in shaping the narratives of organizations, allowing them to connect with their audiences on a personal level. By fostering an environment of understanding and respect for diverse opinions and experiences, Viki positions the brands she supports to thrive in today's multicultural landscape.

Conclusion

Overall, Viki (Askounis) Conner embodies the perfect blend of experience, education, and creativity in the field of corporate and organizational communications. With a strong foundation in sociology and communication, paired with significant leadership roles across a variety of sectors, she continues to influence and inspire those around her. Viki's work speaks volumes about her commitment to reputation management and organizational storytelling, making her a valuable asset to any organization or initiative.

Related Questions

How did Viki (Askounis) Conner leverage her background in sociology to inform her communication strategies?
What key strategies has Viki (Askounis) Conner implemented for reputation management in her previous roles?
In what ways has Viki (Askounis) Conner contributed to diversity and inclusion in her communications planning?
What has been Viki (Askounis) Conner's impact on brand strategy for Fortune 500 companies?
How does Viki (Askounis) Conner integrate her civic engagement into her professional practice?
What unique storytelling approaches has Viki (Askounis) Conner used to enhance organizational communications?
Viki (Askounis) Conner
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Location

Chicago, Illinois, United States