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Sandy Van
Healthcare Communications and Media Relations
Professional Background
Sandy Van is a seasoned public relations expert and the visionary founder of PR Pacific, a dynamic agency that has been at the forefront of communications in the healthcare sector since 1991. Under her leadership, PR Pacific has carved out a niche in media and public relations for healthcare organizations and medical research institutions. With a client roster that includes notable names such as the COVID-19 Prevention Network (CoVPN), UCLA Health, and the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Sandy has demonstrated her proficiency in crafting compelling narratives that resonate with diverse stakeholders including patients, donors, and healthcare professionals.
With Sandy's forward-thinking approach, PR Pacific has developed and implemented innovative strategies to maximize media reach. The agency’s proactive media relations program has produced outstanding results, doubling media placements in the first fiscal year, and continuing to achieve remarkable success with nearly 14,000 print, broadcast, and electronic placements recorded in 2014 alone. Sandy’s commitment to excellence in public relations has not only fostered impactful communication strategies but also contributed to the overall success of her clients.
A true pioneer in her field, Sandy was among the first media relations specialists to leverage emerging technologies for effective communication. Her insight into the power of the internet facilitated the creation of a seamless network of talented professionals operating in a virtual office setup long before it became the norm. This visionary perspective has allowed PR Pacific to enhance client relationships and deliver high-quality service no matter where teams are located.
Education and Achievements
Sandy Van's academic background includes a Bachelor of Arts degree in Journalism and Sociology from Walla Walla University. This solid educational foundation laid the groundwork for her career in public relations and equipped her with essential skills in communication, research, and analysis that have proven invaluable throughout her professional journey.
In recognition of her substantial contributions to the healthcare communications field, Sandy has established herself as a respected thought leader, often sought after for her expertise and insights. Her engagement with various healthcare organizations as a consultant underscores her diverse skill set, enabling her to adapt to the unique needs of each client.
Notable Achievements
- PR Pacific's Success: Under Sandy’s stewardship, PR Pacific has grown into a trusted partner for numerous healthcare organizations and medical research centers, enabling them to effectively convey their programs and successes to the public.
- Innovative Media Relations Strategies: Sandy has been instrumental in creating comprehensive media strategies that have consistently resulted in higher visibility for her clients. Her commitment to staying ahead of technology trends ensures that the agency remains at the cutting edge of media relations practices.
- Extensive Collaborative Network: By assembling a capable team network, Sandy has ensured that PR Pacific remains adaptive and responsive to the changing landscape of healthcare communication, making them a reliable partner in exigent situations.
- Influential Roles: Throughout her career, Susan has served in key media consulting roles for prestigious institutions, including Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, UCLA Medical Center, and Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, showcasing her versatility and deep understanding of the healthcare industry.
Sandy’s impressive career not only reflects her professional accomplishments but also her unwavering passion for enhancing public understanding of health-related topics. Her continuous efforts to build and maintain strong relationships with the media and healthcare organizations highlight her dedication to enhancing public outreach and communication strategies. PR Pacific, under Sandy's guidance, continues to influence the healthcare landscape through skillful engagement and strategic media relations.