Sondra Woodward
Strategic Communications
& Media Relations Leader
& Media Relations Leader
20+ Years Shaping Narratives & Building Brands
I am a senior communications and media relations leader with more than 20 years of proven success in developing and implementing comprehensive media strategies to promote, protect, and advance organizational brands and objectives.
My expertise spans crisis communications, strategic media planning, and content creation across traditional and digital platforms. From serving as primary media spokesperson during critical moments to crafting compelling narratives for NASA's cutting-edge aerospace research, I build strong relationships with media and stakeholders to enhance public perception and awareness.
Manage comprehensive internal and external communications strategies for NASA's SACD, including media engagement, strategic rebranding, content creation across multiple channels, and coaching subject matter experts for media interactions and public presentations.
Served as senior counsel for media relations, crisis communications, and issues management. Developed all official communications to media, managed public requests, authored feature stories, and advised the superintendent on media-related matters. Led communications during critical incidents including mass shooting and COVID-19 pandemic.
Produced, wrote, and hosted local segments of NPR's Morning Edition. Developed news content for broadcast and digital platforms, conducted interviews, hosted civic affairs programs, and created web content and podcasts extending reach beyond traditional broadcast.
Executive communications developed on behalf of organizational leadership during high-stakes moments, including crisis response, policy decisions, and community engagement.
Crafted opinion editorial for School Superintendent addressing the controversial decision to suspend grading during COVID-19, balancing educational equity, student wellbeing, and community concerns.
Developed opinion piece following the Virginia Beach mass shooting, advocating for action on gun violence while honoring victims and addressing community trauma.
Authored official response to U.S. Congresswoman Elaine Luria regarding water contamination crisis, balancing transparency, technical accuracy, and public safety messaging.
Developed sensitive, compassionate remarks for community vigils honoring the 12 victims of the Virginia Beach shooting, providing comfort while acknowledging collective grief.
Quoted by regional and national media as a trusted spokesperson on education policy, crisis management, and public safety issues.
Strategic design and branding materials for NASA programs, including recruitment campaigns, technical program promotion, and visual storytelling that translates complex aerospace concepts for diverse audiences.
Recruitment poster for NASA's Space Mission Analysis Branch featuring bold typography and dramatic space imagery to attract aerospace talent for lunar and Mars exploration initiatives.
Dual-sided rack card promoting NASA's In-Space Servicing, Assembly, and Manufacturing program. Features stunning space photography and QR codes for digital engagement.
Marketing materials for NASA-Boeing collaboration on sustainable aviation technology. Clean design communicating complex aeronautical engineering concepts with accessible visual storytelling.
Rack card series with retro-futuristic aesthetic featuring tagline "We're the fast...and the curious." Bold graphics showcase hypersonic vehicles and planetary entry systems work.
Aspirational recruitment campaign with dramatic astronaut imagery and bold messaging. Strategic use of QR codes and brand logos to drive engagement with career opportunities.
Conceptual design illustrating cislunar logistics and space architecture. Complex technical information visualized through engaging graphics and accessible design.
Coverage of international collaboration on multidisciplinary design optimization for next-generation aircraft development.
Feature story highlighting the contributions of women advancing aerospace research at NASA Langley.
Profile of aerospace engineer recognized at the national level for groundbreaking work.
Exploring planetary science missions through historical context and future possibilities.
Coverage of lunar exploration initiatives and habitat development for future missions.
Historical overview of NASA's impact on Virginia and the region's aerospace legacy.
Historical feature published in Colonial Williamsburg Journal exploring women's roles in early American history.
Feature on innovative teacher retention and support programs in Virginia Beach schools.
Comprehensive public information campaign and materials for water quality crisis management.
In-depth examination of regulatory requirements and ethical considerations in animal testing.
Coverage of innovative STEM education funding for Virginia Beach schools.
Feature on groundbreaking college access initiative in Virginia Beach.
Profile of outstanding educator recognized for excellence in teaching.
Feature on student artwork showcased in public spaces.
Creating compelling audio narratives and multimedia content across platforms, from NPR's Morning Edition to NASA communications and educational podcasts. Expertise in broadcast journalism, podcast production, and strategic video content.
I'm available for strategic communications consulting, media relations, content creation, and speaking engagements.
Email: sondradwoodward@gmail.com
Phone: 757-870-9417
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/SondraDWoodward