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Branding, Strategy, Communications

When building a brand, collaboration is key.

Rock Creek brings the industry’s best talent to your project. And our time-tested management processes ensure that we deliver your project on time, on budget, and on strategy.

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Co-Founder and President

Margaret Johnson

Margaret has more than 20 years of experience in marketing, publications, and management. She co-founded Rock Creek with her husband Scott in 1986 and continues to be a driving force in the firm’s success. Margaret leads new and ongoing business development, marketing strategy development, financial management, and human resources. She earned a BA from the University of Maryland College Park.

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Co-Founder and Principal

Scott Johnson

Scott’s extensive marketing and creative experience have been instrumental in developing an international client roster and placing Rock Creek on the list of top creative firms in the Washington, DC, area. For the past 22 years, he has helped hundreds of organizations create successful marketing/outreach campaigns and brands consistent with their mission and core values. He brings his energy and enthusiasm to every aspect of Rock Creek’s operations. He earned a BA from The George Washington University.

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Principal

Chris Lester

Building transformative brands that capture the imagination and build loyalty has been the driving force behind Chris' work for the past 20 years. He has been instrumental in positioning Rock Creek as a leader in brand communications through diverse, highly successful national and global engagements. Whether it's branding a nation or a retail chain, Chris brings his unique leadership, vision, and passion to finding solutions that help organizations unlock their potential and position themselves for success. He received his education at Pratt Institute in New York.

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Chief Operating Officer

David Rinaldo

Skilled in all aspects of shepherding a growing business, Dave orchestrates multiple resources and priorities to maintain Rock Creek’s reputation for excellent quality and customer service. He has more than 20 years of experience in management, sales, and government contracting. In his role as the company’s Government Contracting Compliance Officer, Dave oversees capture management, compliance, and contract performance. He earned a BS in Business Administration from the University of Connecticut.

Director of Client Services

Christina Barbour

With more than 15 years of combined program management, marketing, and creative experience, Christina excels in developing and executing client and product strategies as well as managing contracts. An excellent strategist and problem solver, she possesses the keen ability to bridge the gap between functional area project groups and business needs as well as client management and program staff. Christina earned her BS in Psychology with an emphasis in Marketing from Radford University.

Design Services Specialist

Donald Barr

Leveraging more than 12 years of industry knowledge and professional skills, Donald is an experienced prepress technician and well-rounded designer. As an interactive and print designer, Donald develops concepts for and designs functional and creative marketing and communications materials. As a prepress technician, he ensures they are produced flawlessly. Highly motivated and focused on all aspects of the design process, he thrives on staying current with the latest design trends and technologies.

Network Manager

Dwynn Barr

With more than 20 years of experience providing IT support in fast-paced, technology-driven environments, Dwynn designed, built, and maintains Rock Creek’s company network. He is also responsible for supporting all of the company’s printers, laptops, desktops, mobile devices, and servers. Energetic and trained in the latest IT systems, Dwynn’s daily onsite presence helps facilitate communication and ensures that Rock Creek personnel have easy and undisturbed access to digital resources.

Project Manager

Regina Bensten

With experience working in account management, health care consulting, and relationship marketing, Regina is well versed in building strong client relations and managing client projects. As a project manager, Regina coordinates internal teams to deliver quality results on tight timelines and works closely with clients to ensure those results satisfy their immediate and long-term goals. A graduate of James Madison University with a BS in Media Arts and Design, Regina wields her sharp attention to detail, enthusiasm, and strong work ethic to deliver exceptional project results for Rock Creek’s clients.

Writer & Strategist

Ashley Bright

Ashley is a writer, editor, and multimedia producer on Rock Creek’s strategy team. With a background in journalism, including a web production role at USA Today, she has a well-rounded professional skill set and excellent organizational skills. She earned a BA in Communications from Grand Canyon University and an MA in Communications from American University.

Motion Graphics Animator

Jacob Campbell

A talented designer, illustrator, animator, and video editor, Jacob weaves together graphics and typography to communicate complex information in a compelling and interactive way. From concept to storyboards to final production, he creates motion graphics and web videos that help Rock Creek’s clients tell their stories and engage their audiences.

Creative Director

Susan Cook

Fluent in a variety of emerging media, Susan collaborates with design, video, technology, and content producers to make online communications interesting, intuitive, and elegant. She is skilled in carrying a client’s visual identity across platforms and projects and promoting brand consistency. A winner of multiple International ECHO awards and a Cannes Lions International Advertising Festival award, she earned a BA from Duke University.

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Accounting Manager

Irina DaSilva

Irina supports billing, record-keeping, and human resources. She handles both the accounts payable and accounts receivable day-to-day tasks, prepares the monthly P&L statements, and advises on budget development. Irina earned a BS in Engineering Technology from the Novosibirsk State Technical University in Russia.

Administrative Manager

Natasha Desjardins

With extensive customer service and problem-solving experience, Natasha provides a wide range of office management support to the Rock Creek team. Her administrative and organizational skills are supported by more than 10 years of professional experience in project management and human resources. She earned a BA in Criminology and Criminal Justice with a concentration in Crisis Communications from the University of Maryland College Park

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Art Director

Tara Detchemendy

With more than seven years of experience in graphic design, Tara combines her visual sensibilities and real-world experience to deliver successful marketing communications. Her work has been honored with numerous awards from the Art Directors Club of DC and the Advertising Association of Baltimore. Tara received a BFA from the Savannah College of Art & Design, where she studied illustration and graphic design.

Art Director

Susan Dove

Creative, passionate, and detail-oriented, Susan has conceptualized and executed a wide range of projects, from blogs and websites to promotional items. Over the past five years, Susan has designed for government agencies, associations, news organizations, and private companies including Coca-Cola and Warner Bros. Always looking to learn and grow as a designer, she’s fluent in both print and interactive design techniques and software. Susan graduated magna cum laude from the Savannah College of Art and Design, where she earned a BFA in Graphic Design.

Senior Art Director

Elena Dvorkina

Experienced in managing creative staff and engaging with clients, throughout her career Elena has created compelling design at a number of high-profile agencies. Her portfolio spans a wide range of projects, including corporate identity, websites, illustrations, interactive games, and animation, as well as large-scale advertising campaigns. Her clients have included HBO, Kellogg’s, Crayola, Discovery Channel, and the White House Office of National Drug Control Policy (ONDCP). Elena earned her Masters in Architecture & Design from the Moscow University of Architecture.

Web Developer

Aaron Ellison

A skilled developer, Aaron specializes in creating Drupal themes for large federal government websites. He is happiest when identifying opportunities to apply cutting-edge technologies and programming techniques to improve the client’s web experience. Aaron studied at the University of North Dakota, where he earned a BBA in Airport Management. Actively involved in the Drupal community, he’s a member of the Drupal Association and continues his professional development through conferences and seminars including Drupalcon.

Program Manager Consultant

Scott Farrell

Scott brings more than 20 years of experience in program management, career counseling, and recruiting to manage national marketing and outreach programs for Rock Creek. He offers expertise in event management, partnership building, and recruiting and retention. Scott is a graduate of the Defense Equal Opportunity Management Institute and is a certified diversity initiatives facilitator. Previous to Rock Creek, Scott served full-time in the Army National Guard, retiring after a distinguished career.

Art Director

Steve Fultz

With a background in CSS design, usability and accessibility, and search engine optimization, Steve designs flexible, expandable, and easy-to-maintain websites. Armed with more than five years of professional experience across print and web design, he applies his knowledge of web standards and best practices to deliver websites that support clients’ communication objectives and strengthen their brands. Steve holds a BA in Graphic Design from Virginia Tech.

Web Video Editor

Adam Garber

An experienced web video editor and production assistant, Adam is expert at providing post-production assistance to videographers and online media teams to create dynamic web content. With a background in producing weekly public affairs talk shows, he thrives in a fast-paced, deadline-driven, high-pressure, and high-visibility environment. He holds a BA in Communicative Arts and Broadcast Communications from Elon University.

Marketing Coordinator

Sarah Griffith

Combining strong writing skills and an enthusiasm for marketing communications, Sarah supports the company’s proposal development process. Collaborating with Rock Creek subject matter experts, she develops well organized and clearly written proposal content. Sarah graduated from Davidson College with a degree in English.

Videographer, Producer & Editor

Hope Hall

An award-winning documentary filmmaker and cinematographer, Hope’s diverse professional work includes documentaries, television series, new media, and a presidential campaign. Hope earned an MA in Documentary Film & Video from Stanford University and a BA in History and French from the University of California, Berkeley.

Technologist

Jessica Hang

With experience in software engineering and web development, Jessica supports some of Rock Creek’s most complex technology and user experience projects, creating wireframes and functional specifications. She also helps push the envelope of responsive design by strategically outlining requirements and specifications for Drupal-based web and mobile projects. An Etsy store owner and greeting card designer on the side, Jessica channels her creative passions to explore innovative technology solutions for our clients. She earned her BS in Computer Science at the University of Virginia.

Marketing Strategist

Mariya Ho

A dedicated marketing professional with skills in communications, public affairs, and project management, Mariya brings a strong blend of energy and experience to the team. Having led multiple aspects of academic and student community outreach programs, from setting agendas to creating marketing materials, she is well-versed in the creative and organizational aspects of producing a compelling marketing strategy. Mariya earned a BA in Psychology and Communication from the University of Maryland and an MA in Media and Public Affairs from George Washington University.

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Director of Online Marketing

Amy Hooker

Amy is a seasoned online public relations professional with more than 12 years of experience developing online marketing, public relations, and blog campaigns, as well as reputation and brand management strategies and campaigns. An expert at blogosphere monitoring, research, and outreach, she spearheads the effort to find or influence online conversations. Amy graduated cum laude with a BA in Communication Studies with a minor in Philosophy from the University of North Carolina—Wilmington.

Senior Web Designer Consultant

Vincent Hu

With exceptional design skills and expertise in web trends and technologies, Vincent plans, designs, and manages front-end development for a variety of clients and industries. Vincent is experienced in website planning, web standards, and client interaction. An excellent problem solver with a strong work ethics, he works quickly and manages multiple projects and timelines. He holds a BS in Computer Science from the University of Maryland, College Park.

Video Producer/Editor

Thomas Kelley

An award-winning producer, Thomas has created new media and advertising content for a broad range of organizations and campaigns. From producing online video to launching a text messaging campaign, Thomas knows how to use emerging technologies to develop multi-faceted, multi-channel communications blueprints. He holds a master’s degree in Media Arts from Emerson College and a BS in Business Management with a marketing concentration from Boston College.

Associate Director,
Project Management

Janessa Klahs

Janessa draws upon experience in strategic planning, advertising, and relationship marketing to manage branding and new media projects from conception to completion. She builds and fosters strong lines of communication between Rock Creek and its customers, ensuring that all deadlines and production needs are met and that our final work products support the client’s strategic objectives. Janessa holds a BA in Communications with a minor in Business from Pennsylvania State University. She is a certified Project Management Professional.

Project Manager

Sonia Kreimer

An experienced project manager, Sonia works with clients, team members, and vendors to ensure project success. Overseeing client initiatives from start to finish, she manages projects in a variety of media, including websites, videos, motion graphics, and mobile and social media content. Her experience includes management of public relations, outreach initiatives, and online marketing efforts for a range of clients. Sonia earned a BA in Communication Analysis & Practice at the Ohio State University.

Technologist

Sarah LaValle

As a Drupal theming specialist, Sarah develops leading technology solutions for Rock Creek’s diverse client base. Her ability to bridge together the finer points of design with the gritty details of a modern web development project make her an invaluable asset. Sarah’s deep involvement with the Drupal community brings an added level of expertise to all of the projects we produce. She earned a BA in Japanese Language from the University of Maryland College Park.

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Production & Design Consultant

David Lawrence

David is responsible for workflow management and organization of all print production projects. He works closely with clients on concept development, maintains vendor relations, and is responsible for production quality control. David received an AA in Graphic Design, with honors, from The Art Institute, and has a Digital Design Certificate in Graphic Design for Print & Web.

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Director of Web Development

Clay Marshall

Clay combines a sophisticated sense of user experience with in-depth knowledge of design strategy that ensures both technical and functional requirements effectively support his customers’ strategic goals. He utilizes technical experience to expand website content management capability and produced effective, intelligent, interactive solutions. Clay earned a BA in Fine Arts/Photography from The George Washington University.

Technologist

Daniel McDermott

Drawing upon a background in business and communications, Daniel combines problem-solving skills and an eye for detail with an in-depth understanding of technical solutions. An independent thinker, he plays a part in Rock Creek’s most comprehensive Drupal-based and mobile projects. Daniel’s background in Linux administration and his experience building Drupal websites testify to his deep-seated knowledge of technology solutions that satisfy clients’ requirements. He holds a BA in History from the California State University, Chico.

Senior Online Marketer & Accessibility Analyst

Zane McHattie

As Rock Creek’s senior online marketer, Zane keeps a finger on the pulse of the ever-changing world of social and new media. A skilled new media expert, Zane brings more than a decade of diverse experience to client projects. Zane's background includes web content creation, ghostwriting and blogging, search engine optimization, and managing Twitter and Facebook campaigns. Zane received a BA in English from Allegheny College.

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Director of Strategy & User Experience

Natalya Minkovsky

Natalya is a strategic communications expert with diverse professional experience in marketing, branding, and publishing. She leads the company’s marketing strategists, user experience designers, information architects, and writers to ensure that our clients are reaching and engaging their stakeholders at the right time and with the right message. A champion of content strategy and plain language, she is passionate about good grammar and open source technology. Natalya earned a BA in Writing Seminars with a minor in Film & Media Studies from The Johns Hopkins University. She is an organizer of DC’s content strategy meetup group and contributes to Chief Content Officer magazine.

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Associate Creative Director

Angela Mitchell

Angela is an energetic and versatile designer with experience developing concept-driven solutions for branding, advertising, and marketing. An integral part of the design team, she plays a key role in developing dynamic and effective design that reflects a strong passion for creativity and excellence. Her creative vision and attention to detail are central to the success of her projects. Angela earned a BS in Graphic Design from Pennsylvania State University.

Senior Strategist

Virginia Moore

Virginia helps organizations build and reinforce relationships with their constituents through on-target integrated marketing strategies and compelling writing. She is a behavior change communication and social marketing enthusiast whose previous experience in public health inspired her to dive into this field. She holds a BA in International Development Studies from The American University and a certificate in Integrated Marketing Communications for Behavioral Impact from New York University.

Interactive Designer

Scott Oppenheim

Scott combines his passion for art, technology, and animation to design engaging interactive experiences for Rock Creek’s clients. With five years of design and Flash development experience, as well as expertise in Action Script programming, he designs websites, Flash microsites, e-mail marketing, and online advertising. When he’s not designing here at the office, Scott uses code to create generative art. Scott graduated from Kutztown University with BFA in Communication Design with a focus on interactive design. He has also studied classical drawing and color theory at Barnstone Studios.

Marketing Strategist

Jenna Palfrey

Jenna is a highly accomplished public relations professional with proven expertise in traditional, digital, and multimedia outreach campaigns for government, private sector, and nonprofit clients. A collaborative leader, analytical thinker, and problem solver, she thrives in a fast-paced environment where prioritizing and managing multiple projects is essential to successful outcomes. Her areas of expertise include copywriting, editing, digital and new media strategies, research and analysis, and marketing collateral development. Jenna earned her MPR at Georgetown University.

Online Marketer

Alex Parent

With a background in market research, advertising, and online marketing campaigns, Alex supports Rock Creek’s online marketing team in its efforts to expand the reach and visibility of our clients. He is deeply involved in such online marketing tactics as search engine optimization, search engine marketing, and social media content development. Alex earned his BA in Advertising from West Virginia University.

Online Marketer

Andrea Paton-Ash

Immersed in social media and experienced in online research, Andrea supports client relationships and achieves client goals through online marketing tactics including search engine marketing, social media content development, and online media monitoring. Andrea graduated from the University of Georgia’s Grady College of Journalism & Mass Communication with a degree in Public Relations.

Marketing Strategist

Lauren Pritchard

With strong communication skills and sharp attention to detail, Lauren helps Rock Creek’s clients meet their marketing objectives. An expert writer and editor, Lauren has contributed content to LivingSocial, DC Magazine, and Houston Magazine. Prior to working in print and digital media, she was a public relations coordinator at a nonprofit organization. She is a graduate of American University’s Journalism and Public Affairs MA program.

Art Director

Patrick Quill

Armed with an abundance of creativity and a background in account management, Patrick collaborates with copywriters, strategists, and designers to conceptualize and execute concepts for print and interactive communications. He is a strategic thinker and problem-solver skilled at translating client goals and objectives into engaging designs. Patrick started his career in 2004 as a coin designer for the U.S. Mint. He graduated from the University of Notre Dame with a BBA in Marketing and Art Studio.

Senior Program Manager

Rob Roberts

Rob is a senior program manager at Rock Creek Strategic Marketing. Previously, he was a senior video editor with USA Today, where he served as lead editor for reporter, photographer, and freelance video content, and was responsible for posting content to USAToday.com. Prior to USA Today, Rob worked with the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) in disaster communications and was involved in the response and recovery operations for the World Trade Center attacks in 2001. An award-winning journalist, Rob earned a masters degree in Multimedia Journalism from the University of North Carolina and his undergraduate degree in English and Political Science from the University of Utah.

Web Developer

Greg Schnippel

Greg is a seasoned Drupal developer with more than 12 years of experience designing, developing, and managing websites for private sector and government organizations. He has launched more than 100 successful website and advocacy campaigns, several of which won awards for innovation and impact. Recognized by clients, employers, and students for his ability to clearly and effectively communicate technical information, Greg has taught technology classes and workshops. He earned an MA in International Affairs from the Johns Hopkins School of Advanced International Studies and a BS in Information Networking and BA in Philosophy, both from the Fort Hays State University.

Project Manager

Stephanie Schreibman

An experienced project manager who has spent the past five years in the digital communications industry, Stephanie works with clients, team members, and vendors to ensure project success. Overseeing client initiatives from start to finish, she manages projects in a variety of media, including websites, videos, motion graphics, and mobile and social media content. Her experience includes management of public relations and outreach initiatives for government agencies, global brands, and small businesses. She earned a BS in Corporate Communications from James Madison University and is a certified Project Management Professional.

Technology Manager

John Serrao

With vast experience developing and managing technology solutions for a diverse mix of public and private sector clients, John establishes, manages, and oversees the technology aspects of our projects. He specializes in tailoring open source software packages such as Drupal, honing his skills and contributing to the community through events such as Drupalcon and tech-focused CrisisCamps. His ability to explain complex technologies to both clients and team members makes him an invaluable asset. John earned a BS in Communications, BA in Economics, and BA in Humanities from the University of Texas.

Proposal Manager

Jennifer Shine

With a diversity of experience in proposal writing and business intelligence, Jen’s professional background renders her an enormous asset to Rock Creek’s business development process. Her previous projects include the development and management of automated tools to enhance and streamline capture management initiatives, contributing to company growth and meeting strategic initiatives. She earned a BA in International Affairs from James Madison University.

Senior Strategist

Jill Tullo

Jill oversees our clients’ strategic marketing initiatives from strategy inception to program implementation and evaluation. A creative writer and innovative thinker, she is happiest when collaborating across project teams to craft integrated campaigns with clear objectives and measurable results. A former English and ESL instructor, Jill specializes in instructional design, developing online and instructor-led training programs that meet clients’ learning objectives. Jill earned a BA in English Literature and Secondary Education from Emory & Henry College. She is a Certified Professional in Learning and Performance (CPLP).

Senior Project Manager

Dale Vieregge

Dale possesses a broad range of knowledge and experience in the development and evaluation of branding, marketing, and public affairs campaigns that engage the general public, government and opinion leaders, and international audiences. As a project manager, he coordinates internal teams to produce quality results on tight timelines and works closely with clients to ensure those results match with their immediate and long-term goals. Dale holds an MA in Political Science from the University of Michigan and a BA from Northwestern University. He is a certified Project Management Professional.

User Experience Strategist

Andrew Wachholz

Active in the online community for more than 11 years, Andrew is equipped with a comprehensive understanding of business and marketing strategies, information architecture, user experience design, and usability. He is a versatile user experience designer who is able to develop business and marking strategies and translate them into successful interactive brand experiences that meet client needs. Andrew received his BFA at Minnesota Sate University, Mankato.

Marketing Strategist

Danielle Wipperfurth

With a background in marketing communications and grant proposal development, Danielle supports the company’s proposal development process. Focused on meeting organizational objectives and the prospective client’s unique needs, Danielle works with the rest of the Rock Creek team to present a strategic solution that supports the client’s mission and brand. She earned a BA in English from Davidson College.

Project Manager

Rachel Zelin

With experience in content strategy and market research, Rachel brings a deep understanding of branding and marketing to her role as project manager for Rock Creek. She has an extensive background managing and implementing marketing campaigns and leverages this expertise on behalf of our clients. A graduate of the Fisher College of Business at Ohio State University, Rachel is a fresh, energetic contributor to the project management team.