Experience

A Look at My Professional Journey

From higher ed to public sector and B2B tech, my career has always centered on one thing: using powerful, strategic content to drive meaningful action.

I bring a deep understanding of mission-driven work, a knack for turning complexity into clarity, and a commitment to outcomes that matter.

Founder | Content Strategist & Writer

Susan M.K. Howard LLC
 January 2021–Present

I partner with mission-driven organizations, often B2B and B2G, to build authority and drive results through long-form content that’s both SEO- and LLM-ready.

  • Plan and produce strategic content — including articles, case studies, guides, and video scripts — for clients in cybersecurity, grant management, finance, workforce development, and more.

  • Write thought leadership and editorial content that connects client expertise to audience needs in education, workforce, and social impact sectors.

  • Conduct deep-dive research and SME interviews to ensure accuracy, accessibility, and practical value.

  • Edit and optimize content for clarity, consistency, and measurable performance across digital channels.

  • Lead content strategy across blogs, social media, and email campaigns to align messaging with audience behavior and business goals.

  • Manage complex editorial workflows and deliver polished assets that support brand credibility and operational ease.

Assistant Director of Communications, Alumni Relations

Grand Valley State University
 June 2016–January 2021

Supported content strategy and storytelling for a $132 million campaign with 35,000+ donors, using message clarity and emotional resonance to build trust and drive giving.

  • Managed cross-channel editorial calendars and content workflows, increasing alumni engagement through newsletters, web, and social.

  • Developed brand-aligned messaging and campaign narratives for fundraising, stewardship, and community-building efforts.

  • Collaborated with internal teams and external vendors to deliver high-impact content that supported university goals.

  • Mentored student employees and elevated team capacity through training and guidance.

Advertising & Communications Coordinator

Grand Valley State University
 January 2011–June 2016

Produced inclusive, audience-focused content to support student recruitment and academic engagement.

  • Created messaging for print and digital channels, including academic program pages, admissions materials, and institutional reports.

  • Applied user feedback to continuously improve content effectiveness and alignment with university brand and voice.

  • Edited for clarity, accessibility, and impact, helping advance the university’s mission of inclusive communication.

Education

Master of Arts in English Literature
 Grand Valley State University, 2015
 GPA: 3.9

Bachelor of Arts in Professional Writing
 Grand Valley State University, 2010
 GPA: 3.8

Let’s Connect

contact@susanmkhoward.com

Fully remote from Grand Rapids, MI, USA.
Operate on Eastern Standard Time.