Nichole Celotto Thurek

Experience

• 

  The Women's Network

  Jan 2020 - Dec 2020

  Vice President of Communications

  • Manage social media accounts and blog, post 4-6 times per week, respond to messages and create Facebook events• Design graphics for social media posts, flyers/posters, and merchandise• Head of the communication committee • Conduct weekly meetings and discussions • Work collaboratively with members by brainstorming ideas for events and social media• Monitor and assist committee members through the process of each task or project

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  WUFT News

  Aug 2020 - Apr 2021

  Digital Producer

  • Read, edit and develop WordPress posts to publish stories on the WUFT website• Create graphics for social media• Develop posts on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram for published stories• Schedule social media posts• Work to observe social media analytics and improve audience engagement

• 

  Rethink Marketing

  Feb 2021 - Apr 2021

  Social Media Marketing Manager

  • Created eye-catching graphics and compelling caption copy to drive engagement across social media platforms.• Managed content scheduling for Instagram and Facebook, ensuring a consistent and strategic online presence.• Developed and executed social media growth strategies, successfully launching and expanding an Instagram account.• Monitored Instagram analytics and audience insights to optimize content, improve engagement, and refine marketing strategies.

• 

  WINK NEWS

  Jun 2021 - Nov 2022

  News Producer

  • Produced & Managed Live Newscasts – Researched, wrote, and built engaging morning newscasts, incorporating breaking news, interviews, and compelling visuals.• Editorial Decision-Making – Collaborated with anchors, reporters, executive producers, and the production crew to ensure a seamless, high-quality broadcast.• Breaking News & Crisis Coverage – Adapted quickly to live updates, ensuring accurate and timely reporting while maintaining show flow.• Mentorship & Training – Provided guidance and hands-on training to new producers, fostering newsroom development and best practices.• Recruiting & Development – Assisted in identifying, onboarding, and mentoring new producers to strengthen the news team.• Show Oversight – Managed newscasts from concept to completion, ensuring editorial excellence and audience engagement. Show less

• 

  DeSoto County Sheriff's Office

  Nov 2022 - now

  • Media Relations – Coordinate press releases, interviews, and media briefings to keep the community informed about public safety initiatives, crime updates, and department achievements.• Crisis Communications – Manage emergency messaging during critical incidents, severe weather events, and public safety threats.• Community Engagement – Develop and promote outreach programs, public events, and educational campaigns to strengthen law enforcement-community relationships.• Social Media & Digital Strategy – Oversee content creation for official social media channels, sharing timely updates, crime prevention tips, and department activities.• Internal & External Communications – Draft speeches, articles, newsletters, and reports to support the Sheriff’s mission and keep the public informed.• Event Planning & Public Relations – Organize press conferences, community forums, and special events to highlight department initiatives and recognize law enforcement efforts.• Law Enforcement Partnership – Collaborate with local, state, and federal agencies to ensure consistent messaging and coordinated responses.• Representing the Sheriff’s Office – Serve as a public ambassador at community meetings, local events, and public forums to promote transparency and cooperation. Show less • Building Community Relationships – Foster strong connections between law enforcement and the community through outreach programs, events, and partnerships.• Program Development – Create and manage community engagement initiatives, including youth programs, safety discussions, and crime prevention efforts.• Event Planning & Coordination – Organize and promote public events such as National Night Out, safety expos, holiday drives, and sheriff’s office-sponsored activities.• Public Education & Awareness – Coordinates presentations on community concerns including crime prevention, fraud awareness, firearm safety, and other public safety topics.• Volunteer & Partnership Management – Coordinate with local businesses, schools, nonprofit organizations, and volunteers to support community-focused initiatives.• Crisis & Disaster Response Support – Assist with emergency preparedness efforts, public safety alerts, and resource coordination during community crises.• Youth & School Outreach – Work closely with School District to support mentorship programs, school safety initiatives, and student engagement events.• Community Feedback & Improvement – Gather input from residents to enhance law enforcement services, build trust, and address public concerns. Show less

  • Public Information Officer

    Nov 2022 - now

  • Community Outreach Coordinator

    Nov 2022 - now