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Laura Dryden
Events Director
Professional Background
Laura Dryden is an accomplished Events Director with a rich background in non-profit organization management. She has spent a significant part of her career at the Greater Kansas City Chamber of Commerce, where her work spans multiple roles, including Events Director, Small Business Manager, and Membership Department Coordinator. Her diverse skill set includes event planning, customer service, and marketing, making her a versatile asset in the field of non-profit management.
In her current role as Events Director, Laura is responsible for the strategic planning and execution of events that foster community engagement and support the Chamber’s mission. Her ability to create memorable experiences while promoting local businesses has established her as a key player in the Greater Kansas City area. Through her initiatives, Laura not only enhances the visibility of the Chamber but also cultivates a culture of collaboration among local enterprises.
Before stepping into her role at the Chamber, Laura accumulated valuable experience in various marketing roles. She served as the Membership Marketing Director at the Ottawa Area Chamber of Commerce, where she honed her skills in marketing strategy and member engagement. Laura's previous positions also include Marketing Director at Ottawa Retirement Village, where she developed marketing strategies to effectively reach potential residents and enhance community awareness.
Laura's career began in education and admissions, where she worked at The Art Institute International-Kansas City and the University of Saint Mary. Her experience as an Admissions Counselor has contributed to her strong communication skills and understanding of client needs, which now serve her well in the realm of event planning and marketing.
Education and Achievements
Laura Dryden holds a Bachelor’s degree in Communication with a focus on Public Relations from Ottawa University. This educational background has equipped her with the necessary skills to navigate complex communication challenges effectively, enabling her to build strong relationships with stakeholders and partners. During her time at Ottawa University, Laura not only excelled academically but also gained hands-on experience through internships at renowned organizations such as United Way and American Red Cross. These internships provided her with a solid foundation in non-profit principles and practices, further igniting her passion for community service and event coordination.
Throughout her career, Laura has consistently demonstrated her initiative and ability to drive results. Her adeptness at utilizing Microsoft Office products has been instrumental in her roles, helping her to manage events efficiently and present information effectively to diverse audiences. Laura’s commitment to customer service ensures that event participants have a positive experience, which is often reflected in the feedback she receives.
Notable Achievements
Among her notable achievements, Laura Dryden has played a pivotal role in organizing large-scale events that attract significant community participation and support for local businesses. Her innovative approach to event planning not only enhances the visibility of her organizations but also adds economic value to the community at large. She has been recognized for her contributions to fostering a vibrant local economy through impactful events that promote networking and collaboration among business leaders.
Laura's passion extends beyond her professional commitments; she is dedicated to continuous learning and personal development, often seeking opportunities to enhance her skills in marketing, event planning, and organizational management. As she continues her journey as an Events Director, she remains an enthusiastic advocate for her community, striving to create opportunities for connection and growth among local enterprises.
In summary, Laura Dryden exemplifies a dynamic and driven individual whose multi-faceted career in non-profit organization management positions her as a leader in event planning and community engagement. Her educational background, combined with her extensive professional experience, distinctly qualifies her to make significant impacts in the areas she serves.
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