Maximizing Impact: Leveraging Technology to Create Effective Newsletters

Keri is the Senior Director of Campaigns & Creative at Whole Whale. She has over 13 years of experience in storytelling, design, and production. Her career has been dedicated to amplifying voices and driving social progress through innovative creative strategies and compelling narratives.

Through her previous experience at The Soze Agency and DoSomething.org, Keri has spearheaded numerous campaigns that push boundaries and challenge the status quo. Her approach to storytelling is rooted in collaboration, firmly believing in telling stories with people, not for them. This philosophy has led her to create impactful campaigns that resonate with diverse audiences and inspire action.

Keri’s journey in the creative world began with a background in photojournalism and design, where she honed her skills in visual storytelling. A notable highlight of her early career includes photographing President Obama’s 2009 inauguration, setting the stage for a career filled with capturing pivotal moments and translating them into powerful narratives.

Known for her expertise in disruptive campaign creative, Keri has a talent for placing thought-provoking content in unexpected places, creating moments of surprise and engagement for audiences. Standout moments include a reproductive justice drone show after the overturning of Roe v. Wade, multiple Times Square takeovers with pro-immigrant messaging, interactive art installations on the National Mall, 10+ murals commissioned, and more.

As an Account Manager, Kat is dedicated to transforming client visions into measurable marketing impact. Kat works closely with clients throughout every aspect of the project, ensuring we not only meet but exceed their goals. Her approach combines strategic thinking with hands-on optimization, particularly in email marketing, where she dives deep into clients’ systems to uncover ways to nurture and engage their audiences.

Highlights of Kat’s work include collaborating with both project-based and retainer clients to develop creative marketing strategies that go beyond traditional deliverables. Notable client wins include helping What Matters re-launch their new OKRs Explained course from planning to launch and supporting The Opportunity Agenda in running ad campaigns that brought in thousands of new leads to the organization. Kat takes pride in helping clients unlock the power of their data, empowering them to make informed, strategic marketing decisions that drive real results.

With over 7 years of experience in non-profit and marketing agency sectors, Kat brings a unique perspective shaped by her degree in International Relations and Communications from San Francisco State University. Kat’s career has been driven by a passion for working with organizations that create positive social impact.

When she’s not working, you’ll find her on outdoor adventures with her dog, tending to her garden, experimenting in the kitchen, or practicing yoga. Kat believes in bringing the same creativity and care to her personal life that she brings to her professional work.

Maria Chelko has fifteen years of experience as an educator in hospital, community, and academic settings. Since joining The Eye-Bank for Sight Restoration in 2017, she has served in many positions including Family Support Coordinator and Hospital and Community Liaison. She is currently Communications Manager. Throughout her career in eye banking, she has been dedicated to improving eye donation outcomes and fostering a positive culture of donation in the New York City area through public and professional education and donor family outreach. Maria holds a bachelor’s degree in English from Penn State University and a master’s in Writing from The University of New Hampshire