Michelle Benham Candidate for Communications Specialist Duke Environmental Leadership Program Nicholas School of the Environment Duke University

A storyteller’s perspective… Profiling star Nigerian teachers at the Microsoft in Education Global Forum in Skillful ability to find and tell engaging stories that will resonate with the DEL audience. Experienced in translating science themes into accessible and compelling stories. Skilled at interviewing techniques that draw out captivating narratives. Interviewing students in Ghana about their science lessons for a teacher training video in 2011.

to grow your brand… As the multimedia producer for NASA’s Operation IceBridge, the largest airborne survey of the Earth’s poles ever flown, I was responsible for updating all platforms and social media outlets from the field on a daily basis. Under tight deadlines with unreliable internet connectivity, I excelled at telling interesting stories about the scientists and the science. I led the team in building a brand that continues to attract dedicated return visitors each Spring and Fall mission; IceBridge is a success story for the Public Affairs Office at NASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center. Skilled networker online and offline to reach audiences from a range of demographics. Experience managing social media platforms including Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, Vimeo, Instagram, LinkedIn and Pinterest for NASA, Discovery Learning Alliance and Conservation Leaders in the Caribbean. Knowledgeable about Google Analytics to measure success.

with an eye for design… Significant experience working with design teams for print, video and web publications including blogs, websites, animations, data visualizations, video graphics and fliers. Collaborated with internal and external design teams to produce a 44 page Discussion Guide for DLA’s award-winning film Inside Story featuring in-depth explanations of HIV animations from the film. Amateur photographer with professional experience managing media assets in iPhoto, Aperture and Lightroom. Experience editing photos and graphics in Adobe Photoshop. Sample page from Inside Story Discussion Guide.

technical aptitude… Skilled video editor. Familiar with social media management tools like Buffer, Hootsuite and Tweetdeck to increase efficiency and effectiveness. Resourceful and creative approach to mastering emerging technologies.

and love for environmental science. I have maintained an intentional balance between my strengths as a communicator and my love for environmental science through such endeavors as earning my master’s from the Center of Environmental Filmmaking at American University (M.F.A., ‘08), being selected as a participant for the competitive Emerging Wildlife Conservation Leaders program and as a communications consultant and member of the Board of Directors for the Conservation in the Caribbean initiative. Pausing for a photo with forest rangers and protectors of the endemic Yellow-headed parrot in Belize, where I shot a video for our EWCL group. The video helped raise over $17k and led to successful community outreach programs to save this critically endangered species.

Thank you!