Experience

Founder | Writer & Content Strategist

Susan M.K. Howard LLC
 January 2021–Present

I help brands attract, educate, and convert their ideal clients through strategic storytelling.

What I do:

  • Craft clear, audience-centered messaging frameworks that align story with strategy

  • Write conversion-ready content — website copy, case studies, nurture sequences, ad copy, thought leadership, and more

  • Develop content strategies that reflect business goals, build trust, and guide people from interest to decision

  • Serve as a strategic thought partner to marketing and leadership teams seeking deeper clarity and connection

Selected results:

  • Helped a client break into a new vertical with a multi-channel campaign that generated 10+ qualified leads

  • Produced website copy and ads that outperformed industry benchmarks and supported high-value sales conversations

  • Created messaging and sales tools that empowered internal teams to speak clearly and confidently across channels

  • Built brand voice and story assets that increased engagement and positioned clients as trusted experts in their space

Assistant Director of Communications, Alumni Relations

Grand Valley State University
 June 2016–January 2021

Spearheaded strategic content initiatives that directly supported a $132 million fundraising campaign, leveraging storytelling and brand-aligned messaging to drive donor engagement and contributions from over 35,000 donors.

  • Directed editorial calendars and managed multi-channel content distribution (newsletters, social, web), significantly increasing alumni engagement and participation.

  • Led high-visibility communication projects, collaborating with internal stakeholders to ensure brand consistency and strategic impact for key university initiatives.

  • Managed and mentored a student team, fostering strong communication and project execution.

Advertising & Communications Coordinator

Grand Valley State University
 January 2011–June 2016

Created inclusive, audience-centered messaging across admissions and academic program content — building a foundation of trust with prospective students and families.

  • Conducted user research to improve content clarity, accessibility, and alignment with institutional goals.

  • Wrote, edited, and reviewed content for consistency, brand voice, and ADA compliance.

  • Strengthened cross-functional collaboration across marketing, admissions, and academic departments.

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

Ready to sharpen your story?

contact@susanmkhoward.com