Professional Overview
Erika Bleiberg is a strategic communications professional currently serving as an Adjunct Instructor at Montclair State University, School of Communication and Media, located in Montclair, New Jersey. She holds extensive experience in media relations, public relations, and communications strategy, with prior roles including the Director of Media Relations at Montclair State University from 2015 to 2020. Her expertise spans the development and execution of both internal and external narratives and branded content for diverse sectors including education, travel, tourism, and architecture. Additionally, Erika functions as a certified labor and postpartum doula and childbirth educator, indicating a multidisciplinary skill set that blends communications with healthcare-related advocacy and support.
Academic and Teaching Roles
- Adjunct Instructor, College of Communication and Media at Montclair State University
- Developed and delivered coursework focused on media relations tactics for graduate students
- Holds graduate coursework in Digital Marketing and Public Relations from New York University (2010-2011)
- Known for facilitating workshops related to personal branding and communications strategy
Career and Experience Highlights
- Director of Media Relations, Montclair State University (2015-2020): Directed and maintained ongoing media relations efforts, acting as a key liaison between the university and media outlets. She managed communications strategies that enhanced the institution’s public profile, demonstrating strong stakeholder engagement skills, particularly in higher education.
- Chief of Staff at Thatcher+Co. (2021-2024): Prior to her adjunct role, she held a strategic leadership role in communications, further illustrating her senior-level expertise in media and corporate communications.
- Experience includes working as a public relations generalist within agencies and in-house roles, including managing media relations for Newark Public Schools.
- Certified labor and postpartum doula, skilled in healthcare communications and emergency medical technician (EMT) certification within New Jersey.
Artistic and Community Engagement
- An avid self-taught artist, Erika paints whimsical and heartfelt portraits, notably of journalists' beloved pets, as a gesture of gratitude to reinforce the value of journalism; this project is recognized as the "Paintingpets" initiative.
- Her artwork has been exhibited in multiple venues, including Montclair's Tiny Gallery, and featured in both online and in-person exhibitions.
- Recognized in press and local media for her commitment to promoting journalism through artistic projects, including participation in events linked to #JournalismMatters.
Recognition and Recommendations
- Erika has received multiple professional recommendations citing her dependability, strategic insight, and collaborative nature, particularly in media relations management.
- She is acknowledged for her ability to communicate effectively with critical financial stakeholders, having contributed to the success of externally funded university programs.
- Described as a passionate communication professional with a consistent positive attitude and trusted campus partner.
Miscellaneous Professional Activities
- Active public contributor and author at Montclair Local, where she has reported and written on community news and cultural events since at least 2012.
- Holds certifications relevant to emergency response and media relations such as NJ State Certified Emergency Medical Technician and FBI-LEEDA Media and Public Relations training.
- Serves or served as trustee of nonprofit organizations, including volunteer work in Glen Ridge Volunteer Ambulance Squad from 1998 to 2012.
- Known for innovative professional workshops, including those hosted for New York University's young female engineers.
Contact Information
- Email: bleiberge@montclair.edu
- Phone: 973-655-4334
- Location: Montclair, New Jersey Metropolitan Area
This profile integrates Erika Bleiberg’s demonstrated leadership in higher education communications, her multidimensional expertise that blends strategic media relations with healthcare education, and her community-oriented art initiatives. The combination of these elements positions her as a seasoned communications expert with a strong local influence and diverse competencies relevant to academic and media-related organizations.
