My career has taken me from photography and print design to web and digital strategy. My interests in data and politics have evolved my career from a traditional small newsroom to a high-growth tech startup and now to an international association. But at my core, I’m interested in helping online users navigate information and have enjoyable, informative experiences on the internet.
For a product-focused look at my experience, please visit my recent blog post: A career in product without the label.
Senior Manager, Development and Technology
Digiday Media | January 2022 – Present
More to come here.
Director of Technology
Online News Association | June 2021 – January 2022
I am now responsible for setting the technology and data strategy and implementation across the organization. In this highly collaborative role, I leverage cutting-edge technology and analytics to grow ONA’s products and services to members, partners, media and the digital journalism community at large. I continue to perform the responsibilities below as well.
Senior Digital Manager
Online News Association | December 2016 – June 2021
As the digital manager, I manage everything on ONA websites from servers to features. I also manage graphic design and our brand guidelines, as well as our software tools and data program.
Accomplishments: Instituting a Salesforce solution to GDPR; building a virtual conference platform; expanding digital sponsorship options; elevating brand strategy; forging technology partnerships.
Here are some thoughts from ONA CEO Irving Washington after I ended my five-year tenure with the organization:
If you've ever been in awe of anything @ONA has done in design, tech or digital innovation the past five years, @nekolaweb was the mastermind. Our beautiful #OJAs site is just one example. 2/5https://t.co/cfSpaXEW7Z
— Irving W. Washington (@IrvWashington3) January 6, 2022
Manager of Digital Content
FiscalNote | October 2015 – December 2016 | Washington D.C.
On the marketing team, I led content and social media strategy; developed beta, MVP version of a new product; pursued media partnerships; managed a team of two employees and eight interns.
Examples of my work at FiscalNote »
Web Developer
FiscalNote | January 2015 – October 2015 | Washington D.C.
Developer and designer for company website, blog and marketing materials. Writes policy briefs and other company news. Data visualization, social media and content strategy.
Web Developer
Pew Research Center | August 2012 – January 2015 | Washington D.C.
I work on the websites of the seven projects at the Pew Research Center – which use a multisite WordPress install. My role is primarily a front-end developer specializing in data visualization and interactivity.
Senior Web Producer
Shaw Media | April 2010 – August 2012 | Crystal Lake, IL
Oversaw an EPpy-winning Best Daily Newspaper Website (under 250,000 unique monthly visitors; awarded by Editor and Publisher magazine). Duties included oversight of video production, web programming, blogging and content management. Also the technical lead on three other daily newspaper websites, one weekly, and two niche sports websites. Directly managed a staff of three.
Visual Content Editor
Morris Daily Herald | December 2008 – April 2010 | Morris, IL
Led a redesign of the print edition’s front page, as well as a web redesign for the paper consistently named “Best Small Daily in Illinois” during my employment. Responsible for weekly feature pages, as well as planning and implementation of staff’s multimedia projects. Oversaw the design of a bi-monthly magazine. Wrote occasional articles, maintained successful photo blog, and edited articles and press releases.
Education
Certificate in Nonprofit Management • Duke University
Spring 2020
Completed intensive program diving into all areas of nonprofit organization leadership including law, finances, strategy and board relations.
B.S. in Journalism • University of Illinois
August 2002 – May 2006
Focused on photography and design; minored in Sociology. Worked as a photographer at the Daily Illini and interned with Univeristy Creative Services.