Michelle Ellis has been working with Orapin Marketing + Public Relations since its inception in 2010 and became a partner in May 2014. She is a Colorado-native, outdoors enthusiast (who is never caught without lipgloss on) and proud mama of active boys. She has an incredible knack for storytelling and connecting people that is a true asset to the team.
Q :: What do you like doing in your free time?
A :: I love enjoying our gorgeous state with my family and friends. From hiking, boating, camping and fishing to just enjoying a craft brew on my patio – I am in my element outdoors.
Q :: Where are you from? What brought you to Colorado?
A :: I’m a Colorado native and proud of it! I was born and raised in Littleton, went to college in Fort Collins (go Rams!) and now live in Highlands Ranch. I did leave for a short stint in Oregon out of college working on-air for a CBS affiliate. I came back because I’m a Colorado girl at heart and missed the mountains and Mile High lifestyle. I do have one pretty amazing souvenir from my time out of state though, my husband Chirs!
Q :: What got you into PR?
A :: I am a storyteller at heart and started my career in journalism writing for my elementary school newspaper. I studied journalism in college with an emphasis on broadcast, but was introduced to the world of PR during that time as well working for Starz Entertainment Group during the summer. I pursued broadcast journalism after college, but couldn’t refuse an offer to come back to my homestate and work as an entertainment publicist for Starz. I learned very quickly how advantageous it is for me to have experience on both sides of the fence. At the heart of PR and journalism is a love for storytelling and people. I love doing this even moreso in my role at Orapin where I get to meet incredible businesses and business owners who are driven by a bigger purpose and striving to make an impact in one way or another through their work – this is the source of incredible stories.
Q :: What do you like most about what you do?
A :: Besides the storytelling? Being a people person and natural connector, I love the opportunities I have to meet incredible people through my work and create connections they may not have had otherwise. I also love being able to show our clients how the work we do makes a significant impact on their business. Being seen, heard and remembered by the people who matter most to your business truly does make a difference!
To learn more about Michelle’s professional experience and accomplishments, click here to read her bio.
Rhiannon Hendrickson is the founder and CEO of Orapin, which helps purpose-driven organizations transform their random acts of PR into a strategic, consistent approach that generates greater awareness and impact. She has worked with organizations of all sizes across myriad industries and causes to develop earned media and thought leadership programs that generate awareness, engagement, and, ultimately, support for those that are making a meaningful impact.