Katie has accepted the position of Marketing, Communications & Events Manager at Ash Lawn-Highland, the home of President James Monroe. She was a valued employee for three years, and we will miss her.

So, what are you going to be doing now?

Katie: The position is a new one for Ash Lawn-Highland. I will be developing the historic site’s marketing plan, managing brand standards, starting an email marketing program, planning community events, managing public relations and social media, and overseeing the property’s contract arrangements as a wedding and private event venue.

Why the move to an in-house marketing position?

It's been an amazing agency experience working at The Ivy Group--I've gotten to help so many different organizations meet their public relations and marketing goals, and I've enjoyed working with a team of talented, good-humored marketing professionals. But I'm moving to an in-house marketing position to really immerse myself in the goals of one organization and take a holistic approach to its marketing program.

What are you looking forward to the most at your new position?

New challenges. New experiences. The mix of history and tourism that the property offers. Oh, and the peacocks!

Describe your favorite project at The Ivy Group.

Nope. Impossible! I've loved everything to which I've gotten to contribute--from rebranding initiatives to online advertising campaigns to pitches for nationwide publications to copywriting for political campaigns. There is, however, a special place in my heart for WVPT Public Television, since it was my first client. I'll always remember the first press release I wrote for the station: a book signing event with "Cubby the WVPT Bear!"

What's the most important thing you've learned while at The Ivy Group?

I've learned so much about the importance of establishing brand standards, and how branding really is the cornerstone of marketing. Consistency, consistency, consistency. I'll take that with me everywhere I go.

What will be your last act as an Ivy Groupie?

Katie: Recording one last Savvy Shopper radio spot!

We have enjoyed having Katie as an "Ivy Groupie" and wish her the best of luck in her new position!
[Check out our fun “Who Will Be the Next Savvy Shopper?” video.]

Read some of Katie's blogs!

Going for the Award: To Apply or Not to Apply?
Get from Point A to Point B with a Brand Standards Guide
Handles, Hashtags and Retweets. Oh, My!
Community Involvement Is Not A "Trivial Pursuit"
What's the Deal? Your Customer Base is on LivingSocial and Groupon

About Katie Falcone

Originally from Pennsylvania, Katie joined The Ivy Group upon graduation from the University of Delaware following an internship with us during the winter term of her senior year. During her time at The Ivy Group, she has managed public relations and marketing for WVPT Public Television, Blue Ridge Bank, UVA Health System Human Resources and the Darden School of Business Institute for Business in Society, among others, while serving as the firm's resident publicist.

Katie also dabbled in voiceover work for one of our client's radio campaigns. Listen to Pantops Shopping Center's Savvy Shopper spots, featuring Katie as Savvy on http://ivy.gr.com/SavvyShopperspots!