Experience | Sophiemeadmedia

A little about me.

Growing up in rural North Carolina, I was surrounded by the most beautiful nature and a wonderfully diverse community. The folks around me came from all walks of life, each offering me a different perspective. I listened as they defeatedly discussed the injustices they were experiencing and hopefully wished for the proper action to be taken. As a young girl, I quickly found that I was extremely passionate about what is right and what is wrong. Feeling so deeply connected to my home state and my community, I committed to taking action to care for my neighbors. As I got older, I found that social media marketing and digital strategy were the ways I could best amplify my voice to effect positive change.

Little did I know this commitment would bring me a few places I had not planned. To name a few, I served as the only solo plaintiff in a national voting rights lawsuit, helped to start a nonpartisan organization and crafted its brand, utilized social media to support small businesses in the high country after a natural disaster, and worked with candidates and political organizations that I truly believe in. As I progress professionally, I hope to continue to use digital marketing to connect with diverse audiences and make that little girl in rural North Carolina proud of the unwavering passion I hold for my community.

I have found that when I create content and strategize digitally for an entity that I align with wholeheartedly, I can activate and inspire other people. When I am not thinking about the best way to strategize for a brand, you can often find me cooking a healthy meal, hiking in nature, spending time with loved ones, or enjoying local coffee.

Education

Appalachian State University

Bachelor's Degree in Digital Marketing with a Minor in Political Science

2020-2024

During my time at Appalachian State University, I pursued a dual degree in Digital Marketing and Political Science, which provided me with a well-rounded education. In the Digital Marketing program, I gained a deep understanding of online advertising, social media strategy, and data analytics, equipping me with the skills to navigate the dynamic world of digital marketing. Simultaneously, my Political Science studies honed my critical thinking and research abilities, allowing me to analyze complex political issues and develop informed perspectives. The combination of these two fields has not only broadened my knowledge but also provided me with a unique skill set that can be applied in various professional settings, from political campaign management to digital marketing strategy development.

Walker College of Business Honors Program

2022-2024

My experience writing a thesis as part of the Walker College of Business Honors Program at Appalachian State University was both challenging and rewarding. Being part of a dedicated and diverse cohort provided a supportive community throughout the process. Crafting my thesis allowed me to delve deep into a specific business topic, conduct extensive research, and develop strong analytical and presentation skills. The guidance and mentorship from professors and peers within the program helped me refine my ideas and develop a comprehensive research project. This experience not only enriched my academic journey but also prepared me for the complexities of real-world business problem-solving and research.

Work Experience

Biodiversity Policy Communications Consultant | Endangered Species Coalition

Remote | June 2025

Monitoring relevant Congressional proceedings and drafting Congressional hearing memos; Creating social media content to educate on Endangered Species Act issues and to highlight Congressional champions.
Posting social media for ESC on Facebook, Instagram, X, and YouTube.
Evaluating social media content, such as audience reach and insights on how social media supports movement building and shaping narratives aligned with ESC’s policy goals.

Digital Communications Associate | Endangered Species Coalition

Washington, DC | January 2025

Produced content with a national appeal across several platforms utilizing different mediums.
Engaged in conversations with the Policy Director on how to effectively communicate complicated Hill policy to the general public.
Expanded and revitalized the digital organizing presence and training program.

Content Creator & Social Media Manager | GR Hospitality

Blowing Rock, NC | January 2022 - Present

Evolved and executed a strategic social media plan that enhanced brand awareness, increased customer engagement, and showcased the company's unique dining experience at each of the properties through high-quality content creation.
Grew the social media presence of each property, ensuring consistent branding, interactive engagement, and data-driven strategy adjustments to maximize reach, engagement, and conversions.
Collaborated with owners, department heads, and staff to create and promote seasonal menus, special events, and community partnerships, strengthening the restaurant’s digital brand and customer loyalty.

Media Director | Watauga County Voting Rights Task Force

Boone, NC | August 2023 - December 2024

Led brand development and communication efforts as a founding member, establishing a strong online and offline presence to support nonpartisan voter education and engagement initiatives.
Secured a $50,000 grant alongside the team, ensuring the organization’s continued impact despite challenges from a natural disaster, reinforcing our commitment to voter rights and civic participation.
Developed and executed strategic digital and community outreach campaigns, utilizing social media, print media, and data-driven insights to promote voter registration, legislative awareness, and civic engagement.

Deputy of Strategic Engagement | Watauga County Voting Rights Task Force

Boone, NC | August 2020 - November 2022

Executed comprehensive digital engagement strategies, leveraging social media, data-driven insights, and targeted outreach to mobilize supporters and increase voter participation.
Used various mediums to create compelling content for multiple social media platforms, ensuring consistent messaging, brand alignment, and interactive engagement to strengthen community support.
Worked alongside key campaign teams, integrating digital efforts with all organization operations.