Danielle brings to the table 11 years of Integrated Marketing Communications, Event Marketing and Internal Communications knowledge, spanning across five separate industries. With an original desire to be a journalist, Danielle pivoted into Marketing once she entered the workforce and hasn’t looked back. Being a ‘people-person’ and having a passion for the creative process, Danielle loves collaborating and group work. Danielle graduated from the University of San Diego in 2005 with a BA in Communication Studies and is currently Marketing Communications Manager at L-3 Communications, Telemetry & RF Products. In addition to volunteering with SD AMA, Danielle mentors USD Communications students and dedicates her time to cycling for Pedal the Cause.
What is your favorite brand, and why?
As a craft-beer enthusiast, I would have to say my favorite brand is Ballast-Point. I strongly believe in supporting local brands/businesses, while also following your own passion and desires. Ballast-Point continuously stays true to their roots, while also staying true to their one passion: the craft. Their tagline, “Dedicated to the Craft,” showcases their own zest and excitement for what they produce and I love that! No matter what you personally define as your “craft,” I see this tagline as catchy and smart, with the ability to resonate with many in several different ways. Now that’s smart Marketing!
What is your favorite quote or nugget of wisdom?
“If you have passion for what you do, the company you keep, the life you live, it will be reflected in whatever you create. Passion is like that; it springs out, jumps, unpredictable and unplanned, into every thing we touch. If it doesn’t, others know. Passion can’t be faked and it can’t be manufacture. Which is why it is so priceless.”
-Anoynmous
Who inspires you and why?
My grandparents inspire me. Growing up in small, poor towns in Portugal, they immigrated to the United States for a better life and to achieve the American Dream. My grandmother worked in a textile factory, while my grandfather was a pipe-fitter, carpenter and wine-maker. They worked extremely hard to give their children all they wanted and became the quintessential 1950’s family. With nothing more than a third grade education, my grandparents showed me that you can achieve anything you set your mind to. My grandfather taught me to never give up and my grandmother showed me the importance of fun and laughter. They have both since passed, but I carry their mantras with me every day.
What are you passionate about?
I’m passionate about giving back in various ways and just enjoying the human experience. In my spare time, I mentor USD Communication students in the classroom. It’s been a wonderful opportunity for me to give back and it’s exciting to see how much Marketing Communications academic programs have grown.
Additionally, I fundraise and cycle on behalf of Pedal the Cause – a local charity dedicated to raising funds that go directly to Cancer research at Rady Children’s, UCSD Health, Salk Institute and the Sanford-Burnham Prebys Center. Riding along side Cancer survivors is humbling, inspiring and quite empowering. I’m extremely grateful to be involved with such a passionate organization.
How has the AMA helped you excel in your career?
AMA has introduced me to many smart, innovative, creative and talented people. I’ve had a wonderful time getting to know these great Marketers and proud to be one within the San Diego community. AMA has also increased my own Marketing knowledge and I’ve been able to apply many of the learned practices to both my professional and personal areas.
What excites you most about San Diego AMA’s 2017 event lineup?
I’m extremely excited for the diverse line-up of presentations, workshops, panels and mixers coming our way for 2017! I’m thrilled to continue working with such a dynamic group of individuals and can’t wait to learn more. Plus, it’s fun being with those who “speak my language!”
