Lara brings more than 25 years of experience as a communications professional in non-profit and municipal settings. Most recently, as director of communications for a large faith community in Kansas City, Lara managed brand identity and developed and implemented comprehensive, integrated communications plans for large and small campaigns and ongoing projects.

She previously worked for the City of Kansas City, Missouri, first in the City Communications Office and later in the office of Kansas City Mayor Kay Barnes during her two terms. During Lara’s tenure in the Mayor’s Office, she managed public relations, media and community relations projects, including planning and coordinating press conferences, special events, and large public gatherings; researching and writing speeches, video scripts, and executive communications; and serving as liaison to charitable and civic organizations.

A skilled writer and editor, Lara has used her experience in art direction, design, photography and video to help organizations use words and images to articulate their vision and mission in a way that is purposeful, strategic, consistent, and layered. Lara holds a Bachelor’s degree in Communications from Missouri State University and a Master’s degree in Communication Studies from the University of Kansas.

Fun Stuff

• I nerd out on…?
  Running.
• I’m legitimately bad at….?
  Telling jokes.
• Five simple pleasures you can’t do without, barring the essentials?
  My family, my dog Piper, football, wine, travel.