Today we’d like to introduce you to Elizabeth Nickerson.
Elizabeth, before we jump into specific questions, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
Most of my free time has been dedicated to following my dreams and making them real, and tangible. When I graduated with my bachelor’s degree from the University of Miami, I moved my life to Tallahassee, FL to get my start at being a professional storyteller for their CBS affiliate. The opportunity made me see life through a new set of eyes and perspective. I learned a lot about myself. I was humbled by residents and their ability to share with me their personal stories and experiences. I have someone I interviewed still call me to this day to tell me how that story really impacted his life and now he can get the help that he needs.
I also had a story about a llama on the lamb that aired in 12 countries and went viral, which earned me an awards nomination. These tiny milestones made me realize that I was ready for new challenges. I believe my passion for the television news industry makes me an asset in the marketing, media relations and social media industries. I believe it is crucial to have unique qualities and diverse communications experiences to be invaluable in this ever-evolving digital universe. My piece of advice to young professionals is to learn to embrace change and adapt within your field. Additionally, it is important to be a subject matter expert in your line of work.
Great, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
It has not been smooth sailing. Struggles make you stronger, more resilient and more capable to get through any challenges. What is life without challenges? Success becomes much sweeter when the road has been tough. I have been through many personal and professional roadblocks that have led me to this incredible moment in my life. Those roadblocks that may have been out of my control have led me to this moment. And for that I am grateful. I believe I am where I am supposed to be. I practice gratitude because I could not have been as personally and professionally successful without my supportive parents and family.
One of the most difficult recent struggles has been finding out last year that my father had 12% kidney function, after living a positive, healthy active lifestyle. It has been a very hard, emotional road for my family, but I am grateful that my father finally received a kidney a few weeks ago. The moment taught me that health, love and happiness in your personal and professional life needs to be top priority. Life is full of unexpected moments of hardship and joy, but those experiences make you, YOU. It fuels your passions and makes you more resilient.
Please tell us about American Heart Association.
I am a Director of Marketing and Communications for the American Heart Association in South Florida. I specialize in media relations, marketing and social media campaign strategy. I think my mantra is when you help someone up a hill, you get much closer to the top yourself. Life is about providing hope and helping others. There is something extraordinarily fulfilling in providing hope and guidance in a person’s career endeavors.
I am grateful for the obstacles placed in my path because it taught me that those moments of failure are just gearing me up for something greater. Through failure, I became resilient and it made me a more confident person. I think success only happens through failure. My skill set is through telling stories that emotionally resonate with the community. I enjoy bringing the AHA mission to life through social media campaign strategy and media relations. I am extremely grateful to be part of an organization that values company culture, overall wellness and making a difference for humanity.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: @enickerson33166
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