What started as a love for creativity and connection eventually turned into a career rooted in storytelling, strategy, and community.

Currently, I serve as the Communications & Marketing Manager for Housing & Residence Life at the University of Chicago, where I oversee all internal and external communications for the department. From social media and branding to graphics, signage, photography, and crisis response communications, no two days ever look the same, and honestly, I love it that way.

What makes me good at what I do is my ability to think both operationally and strategically at the same time. One moment I’m focused on the smallest detail, and the next I’m looking at the bigger picture. What’s working? What isn’t? How can we make this better than we found it? How do we create communications that not only stand out, but actually mean something to the people receiving them? That’s the sweet spot for me.

At the center of my work is hospitality. I believe good communication should make people feel informed, welcomed, understood, and cared for. Whether I’m writing messaging during a crisis, planning a campaign, taking photos at an event, or designing signage for students moving into their new home, I approach the work with people first in mind.

I also believe emotional intelligence is one of the most valuable skills in communications and marketing. Understanding people, what they need, what they respond to, and what makes them feel connected, is just as important as strategy itself. I genuinely love getting to know the people around me beyond surface level. Where are you from? What’s your favorite coffee shop? What makes you laugh? What are you passionate about? Those conversations matter.

Some of my closest friendships started as professional relationships, and I think that says a lot about how I move through the world. Personally and professionally in tune is where real success happens.

At my core, I’m community-first. I care deeply about creating experiences, communications, and environments that feel intentional, impactful, and human. I want the work I create to leave people feeling seen because the strongest brands, teams, and communities are built on connection.

I’ve been “amandafesting” this for a long time, and I’m just getting started.