Joel Swanson
Vice President Risdall Public Relations
Hired: June 2007
Overview:
Joel leads strategic public relations and integrated planning and execution for a variety of clients, specializing in health care, education, and nonprofits. In that role, he's responsible for supervising accounts and account staff, developing new business, and establishing the brand and reputation of the public relations division of RMG.
Education:
- St. Cloud State; Bachelor's Degree in Mass Communication and Business Management
- Bethel University; Master's Degree in Philosophy and Theology (Christian Thought)
Previous Experience:
Prior to joining RPR Joel led strategic public relations planning, execution and measurement for several areas of Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Minnesota. He also led internal communications and media relations for Bethel University and coordinated the Minnesota Teacher of the Year Program - including a National Teacher of the Year winner - among his outreach for Education Minnesota, the state's teachers union.
Notable Achievements at Risdall:
Already known as an industry leader before arriving at Risdall, Joel helped RPR re-brand a prominent social services nonprofit, led a visibility campaign for a publicly traded health care company, created a white paper for an innovative pharmacy management company, promoted a candy buyback program from the state's largest dental chain (generating more candy than ever imagined), and helped launch a feminine convenience product to national prominence, to name a few.
Client List:
Baxter Worldwide (Renal Division), Buyer's Health Care Action Group, GoGirl, Healthways Inc., Lundstrum Center for the Performing Arts, Metro Dentalcare, Medication Management Systems, Novologix, Northwestern College, OutsourceOne, Solid Waste Management Coordinating Board, Visit Eau Clair
Professional Associations and Involvement:
An accredited member of the Public Relations Society of America (PRSA) since 2000, Joel is currently serving a second term on the Board of Directors of PRSA Minnesota. Joel is also an instructor at various area colleges and universities and serves on boards of directors for Ronald McDonald House Upper Midwest and Irondale Youth Baseball League.
Awards:
Joel has earned numerous awards for his work, including IABC Bronze Quills, PRSA Classics, WICI Crystal Clarions, as well as industry-specific honors.
On a Personal Note:
Off the clock, Joel enjoys finding ways to connect on a deeper level through teaching, coaching Little League Baseball and as a Cub Scout den leader.