Kristyn J. Russell: Curriculum Vitae

Professional Summary

Dynamic and accomplished Communication & Marketing Manager with extensive experience in digital strategy, public relations, content creation, and youth engagement. Adept at aligning messaging with organizational values, fostering stakeholder relationships, and managing cross-functional projects. Proven ability to lead innovative campaigns that drive measurable engagement and growth. Committed to clear, inclusive, and mission-driven communication.

Key Skills & Expertise

  • Communication & Engagement Planning

  • Leadership Development & Team Building

  • Content Development & Audience Targeting

  • Digital Marketing & SEO Optimization

  • Outstanding Verbal and Written Communication

  • Budget Management & Resource Allocation

  • Microsoft Office | Google Workspace | Adobe Creative Suite | Canva

  • Bilingual: English (Fluent), Spanish (Conversational)

Education

Michigan State University
East Lansing, MI
Master of Arts in Strategic Communication
GPA: 4.00 | Expected May 2025

Aquinas College
Grand Rapids, MI
Bachelor of Arts in Theology
Minors: Communication & Spanish
GPA: 3.93 | May 2010

Villanova University
Radnor Township, PA
Master of Arts in Theology
GPA: 3.81 | May 2012

Certificates

Professional Experience

Communication & Marketing Manager
Blessed Sacrament Parish – Midland, MI
August 2018 – Present

  • Organized and facilitated town halls and visioning sessions, enhancing communication across all organizational levels.

  • Implemented SEO/SEM strategies, increasing website traffic by 30% and improving customer conversions.

  • Designed email marketing campaigns with personalized content, increasing open and click-through rates by 25%.

  • Maintained website content, ensuring accuracy, UX optimization, and alignment with communication goals.

  • Researched industry trends and applied data-driven strategies to stay ahead in digital marketing.

Coordinator of High School Youth Ministry
Blessed Sacrament Parish – Midland, MI
July 2013 – Present

  • Led weekly programs for high school students, fostering spiritual and personal development.

  • Developed custom curricula to meet diverse needs and encourage community building.

  • Recruited and trained volunteers, creating a collaborative and supportive team environment.

Presentations & Publications

  • “The Woman Who Changed the World: Mary the Revolutionary” – Blessed Sacrament Parish (May 2022), St. Francis of Assisi Parish (April 2023)

  • “The Sacrament of Anointing of the Sick: A Step in the Healing of Young, Self-Harming Women” – Worship, November 2012

  • “Spirituality Today: An Examination of the Trends in Contemporary Spirituality” – Insignis Honors Symposium, April 2010

Volunteer Experience

  • Board Member – Little Books (June 2024 – Present)

  • Adult Mentor – Blessed Sacrament Parish (September 2022 – May 2024)

  • Football Statistican - Dow High School Football (September 2012- November 2019)

  • Curriculum Advisor – Diocese of Saginaw (March 2012 – August 2013)

  • Empathetic Leadership

  • Active Listening & Conflict Resolution

  • Creative Problem Solving

  • Collaborative Teamwork

  • Adaptability in Fast-Paced Environments

  • Cross-Cultural Communication

  • Mission-Driven Focus

  • Strategic & Systems Thinking

Soft Skills