Rebecca Swenson
Rebecca is currently a PhD student in the Mass Communication department, pursuing a minor in Feminist Studies. She has a Master of Arts degree in Mass Communication from the University of Minnesota and a Bachelor of Arts degree in Journalism (advertising and public relations focus) with a certificate-in-business from the University of Wisconsin-Madison.
Her professional background is in public relations and marketing. Most recently, Rebecca worked as a freelance public relations consultant for companies in the recreation and outdoor industry. In 2001, she received a Bronze Quill from the International Association of Business Communicators for excellence in editorial writing, and in 2002, she was a classics finalist for the Public Relations Society of America awards in nonprofit public relations programming and the bronze anvil writing category.
Current Research Interests:
Rebecca’s research interests include representations of identity and community in commercial messages, social movements, use of storytelling and literary language in strategic communication, representations of gender, public health campaigns, and the history of advertising and popular culture.
TA, RA, or Other UM Appointments:
Instructor of Record:
JOUR 3004 Information for Mass Communication, Spring 2005 and Summer 2005
Teaching Assistant:
JOUR3745 Mass Media and Popular Culture, Fall 2005
JOUR3251 Strategic Communication Research, Fall 2005 and Fall 2004
JOUR3201 Principles of Advertising, Spring 2005
JOUR3004 Information for Mass Communication, Fall 2004 and Spring 2004
JOUR1001 Intro to Mass Communication, Spring 2005, Spring 2004 & Fall 2003
Professional Experience:
Account Executive, Padilla Speer Beardsley Public Relations
As an Account Executive at PSB, Rebecca was responsible for managing account team and budget; researching, developing, implementing and evaluating creative communication programs; maintaining day-to-day contact with clients; building relationships with business and trade editors; producing effective copy; preparing for and executing tradeshow/event publicity support; and identifying and fulfilling communication opportunities for a varied client base that included manufacturing, technology, nonprofit and outdoor industry accounts.
Assistant Account Executive, Padilla Speer Beardsley Public Relations
As an AAE, Rebecca interviewed clients and customers; wrote byline articles, case histories, news releases, brochures, fact sheets, and media alerts for a diverse mix of organizations and media outlets; conducted media outreach; supported account team; and quickly developed expertise on complex technologies .
Communication Specialist, Wisconsin Manufacturing Ext. Partnership
In this position, Rebecca planned and executed special events; updated and maintained the nonprofit organization’s Internet site; coordinated efforts between WMEP’s marketing department, design firm and Internet Service Provider to create and maintain website; designed and implemented a plan for revamping the company’s Intranet; wrote monthly newsletter to staff and customers from CEO; prepared written copy for brochure inserts, website, and numerous letters to legislators and clients, developed research plan and survey instruments, analyzed data and presented report and recommendations.
Intern, Wisconsin Manufacturing Ext. Partnership (WMEP)
As an intern, Rebecca interviewed clients and wrote success stories for promotional activities and supported marketing material development, event planning and research projects.
Fundraiser, The Benjamin Group
At the Benjamin Group, Rebecca raised funds for various environmental and political organizations and solicited new clients.