Erika’s mission is clear: to bridge the gap between brands and their audiences through powerful communication strategies that resonate and inspire action. With nearly two decades of experience, she has spearheaded campaigns for creative agencies, national nonprofits, and federal government agencies across the U.S. From small businesses with budding networks to organizations with millions of followers, Erika’s approach adapts to the unique needs of each client.
As the founder and CEO of Ignite Communication, Erika brings her diverse expertise to craft tailored strategies that align with each customer’s goals, audience, and data. She believes that no two clients are the same, and their communication strategies shouldn’t be either. By deeply immersing herself in the specifics of each project, Erika ensures that every plan she creates is not only effective but also executed with precision, exceeding expectations—on time and within budget.
Affectionately nicknamed “Chispita” (meaning “little spark”) by her family, Erika’s passion for marketing and communication is unstoppable. Outgoing, empathetic, and deeply curious, she is driven by a profound desire to create meaningful, emotional connections—fueling her success in delivering key messages that resonate with target audiences.
Career Highlights
Advanced degree:
- (2016) Johns Hopkins University, Master of Arts in Communication
- Focus Area: Digital Communication
Awards:
- (2023) dotCOMM Award, Gold & w3 Award, Silver – Website Redesign
- (2023): PRSA Bluegrass Landmarks of Excellence – Reputation Management
- (2022): PRSA Bluegrass Landmarks of Excellence – Public Service Communication
- (2022): PRSA Bluegrass Landmarks of Excellence – Video Shorts
- (2018): National Park Service – Achieving Relevance through Interpretive Media and Technology
- (2015): Peace Corps – Director’s Distinguished Service Award
- (2022-Present): WaterStep Board, (2024) Vice Chair
- (2023): Leadership Louisville Bingham Fellow
- (2019): Launched Louisville’s first Startup Week. The event included 6 ‘hot topic’ tracks, 36 sessions, and over 350 registrants. Lead DEI Track.
- (2019): National Cooperative Business Association CLUSA International USAID Marketing Strategist Volunteer in Santa Ana, El Salvador
- (2018): Programmed “Breaking the Barriers of Unconscious Bias” panel discussion for San Francisco Women in Wireless. Panelists included; Vice President of Digital Acceleration at Walmart, Senior Product Manager at Survey Monkey, Diversity and Inclusion Manager at Yahoo, and the Global Program Manager of Cultivate Equality at Salesforce.
- (2015): Launched first Employee Resource Groups at Peace Corps.
