Carolina Vendrame

Analyze, plan and implement advocacy and public affairs strategies to achieve positive public policy decisions, maintain access to state decision-makers and protect the University of Florida’s image. Interact with business leaders on public affairs, development, and legislative issues.

Selected achievements/contributions:
Researched, planned, negotiated, lobbied and secured legislation that resulted in over $29 million for research facilities across the State.

Responsible for managing an integrative legislative, media and development programs for the Fort Lauderdale and Tropical Research and Education Centers reporting to three Directors with responsibility for complex and important assignments.

Oversees all aspects of operating a business, including production, marketing, public relations, and quality control responsibilities. • Excellent professional reputation among industry professionals and regulatory agencies. • Resourceful in developing contacts and information sources. • Effective in promoting a positive, productive work environment and team building.

Plan events involving participation of South Florida Legislators, business leaders and University of Florida Alumni. Act as the principal contact and representative on legislative efforts that will benefit and/or affect the Research Centers.

Manage and recruit advisory board members for one of the research centers.

Manage an average of 90 grants per year.

Atlanta, GA Public Relations and Public Affairs

Selected achievements/contributions: Interacted closely with several state agency personnel, media personnel, key corporate leaders from companies such as Coca Cola, Bellsouth, Anasteel, UPS, Home Depot, Bank of America, Wachovia, Delta Airlines, Turner Broadcasting and other state leadership to develop key relationships. Resulted in more recognition and visibility for the company. Planned, developed and executed a media relations program to raise company's visibility in the city of Atlanta. Managed the company's news media to bring visibility about its outstanding product to the Hispanic Industry leaders in Atlanta.

Atlanta, GA

Director of Development Researched, initiated, developed and implemented fundraising and public relations activities for this local non-profit agency to support an organization with a $2 million annual operating budget. Increased donations for 2000 Latino Summit and Latin Fever events by 94% and 12% respectively through new fundraising strategies. Increased by 28% annual donation by developing contribution prospects into donors. Secured $134,600 in additional contributions by working with existing donors to increase contributions. Saved $19,000 in Latin Fever expenses by using frugal techniques without sacrificing quality.

CARE, Atlanta, GA

Donor Relations Officer Reported to Donor Relations Director at the headquarters of an international development and relief organization. Accountable for the technical implementation and management of fundraising programs targeting $50 million annually in private donations. Increased Hispanic donor file from 15, 000 to 26, 000 donors by employing targeted marketing techniques and using“ in-culture” marketing strategies. Secured Willie Colón, a well-known Hispanic entertainer to serve as the organization's first Hispanic celebrity spokesperson. Created and monitored a database of major donors for 14 field domestic fundraising offices. Interacted with local officials such as the Mayor of the City of Atlanta for fundraising events.