OUR TEAM

Expertise: Leading high-impact communications strategies for nonprofit, corporate, and public sector clients, including Fortune 500 companies and governments globally.

With a career that spans advising two governors, Cardinal William Keeler, and top DC lobbying firms, Steve has built a reputation as a strategist on some of the MidAtlantic’s most challenging public policy and development initiatives. He is also a seasoned debate prep expert for presidential campaigns.

Secret Weapon: A deep understanding of public perception and crisis communication, honed through navigating complex issues.

Unexpected Skill: Can turn complex political issues into digestible narratives that resonate with diverse audiences.

“Success is about rebuilding trust and fostering meaningful connections that make a lasting impact.”

Expertise: From guiding the launch of a Pulitzer Prize–winning nonprofit newsroom, to securing approvals for a $1.4 billion MGM Resort overlooking the nation’s capital, to a historic ski lift redevelopment in Aspen, Damian’s advice delivers generational value for some of America’s most influential family offices.

Raised between the Washington and Baltimore beltways, Damian forged a unique combination of D.C. savvy and Baltimore grit—making him a trusted strategist in media, crisis, and influence campaigns.

Secret Weapon: Media pressure, third-party validators, and undeniable storytelling that reshape public conversations and reform government at all levels.

Unique Ability: Building coalitions so broad and credible, they make progress inevitable.

 “There’s nothing more rewarding than holding elected officials, stakeholders, and media organizations accountable to the communities they serve.”

Expertise: Shaping narratives and strategic communications that drive industry-leading success across sectors.

A powerhouse in Maryland’s communications and civic landscape for over four decades, Sandy has advised Senators, Governors, and Mayors while earning national recognition for her expertise in tourism, healthcare, urban policy, and brand positioning.

Strategic Approach: Combining deep industry knowledge with bold, innovative thinking, she crafts campaigns that elevate brands, shape public opinion, and deliver award-winning results.

Unique Ability: Turning emerging trends and disruptive ideas into transformative opportunities for cities, industries, and Fortune 500 brands.

 “True impact comes from strategic vision, fearless execution, and an unwavering commitment to excellence.”

Expertise: Navigating political and business landscapes to drive impactful policy and communications strategies.

A seasoned public affairs leader, Rick has advised top elected officials, corporate leaders, and nonprofits, shaping policy and public perception across industries from healthcare to energy.

Strategic Approach: Combining deep political insight with national media connections, he crafts advocacy and public relations campaigns that deliver results.

Unique Ability: Translating complex policy and business challenges into strategic opportunities that resonate with key decision-makers.

“Advocacy isn’t just about influence—it’s about building relationships that create lasting change.”

Expertise: Navigating high-stakes communications, media strategy, and political messaging at the intersection of policy and public perception.

With nearly two decades of experience in strategic communications, crisis management, and government affairs, Beth has shaped narratives at the highest levels of U.S. politics. From the halls of Congress to national media outlets, she brings a calm, commanding presence to even the most complex and contentious issues.

Strategic Approach: Grounded in political insight and media savvy, Beth crafts sharp, persuasive messaging that breaks through noise and builds trust.
Unique Ability: Translating polarizing policy debates into clear, compelling stories that resonate with both policymakers and the public.

“The most powerful communications aren’t the loudest—they’re the ones that last.”

Expertise: Crafting winning strategies at the intersection of politics, policy, and public affairs.

With over 30 years of experience across campaigns, government, and advocacy, Josh has built a career driving results where it matters most: behind the scenes and ahead of the curve. As a trusted advisor to Governors, legislative leaders, and grassroots movements, he brings a rare blend of political instinct, strategic discipline, and deep institutional knowledge.

Strategic Approach: Whether running campaigns or navigating the complexities of government, Josh leads with experience, precision, and a clear-eyed view of how to move the levers of power.

Unique Ability: Turning relationships into results and translating political dynamics into strategic advantage for clients and causes.

“There’s nothing more rewarding than building coalitions, navigating tough terrain, and getting the win.”

Expertise: Leading award-winning public relations campaigns that elevate brands, drive consumer engagement, and bring iconic destinations and experiences to life.

With more than 30 years of success across travel, tourism, food and beverage, and lifestyle PR, Liz is a powerhouse in consumer storytelling. Her portfolio spans global tourism boards, national landmarks, beloved attractions, and fast-growing brands — crafting bold campaigns that make headlines and memories.

Strategic Approach: Liz blends deep industry knowledge with out-of-the-box creativity to deliver integrated communications programs that drive results and spark emotional connections.

Unique Ability: Turning moments into milestones and brands into household names through immersive, high-impact campaigns that resonate across audiences.

 “PR isn’t just about coverage — it’s about creating experiences that people remember, share, and seek out.”

Expertise: Crafting strategic, multi-layered campaigns that cut through the noise.

With a keen eye for strategy and a creative edge, Laura brings years of experience in public affairs, coalition-building, and brand storytelling across corporate, nonprofit, and media sectors. She develops layered, targeted communications plans that go beyond industry norms, crafting customized campaigns that resonate and drive results.

Secret Weapon: Through a creative, outside-the-box approach that blends traditional PA with modern digital strategies, Laura creates tailored campaigns that shape perception, deepen engagement, and build long-term value.

Unexpected Skill: Turning complex issues into clear narratives and transforming static brands into dynamic, high-visibility players through thoughtful messaging and design.

“Strategy without creativity falls flat. Success comes when both work together to move people.”

Expertise: Crafting integrated communications strategies that build brands, amplify events, and create cultural momentum across travel, nonprofit, and lifestyle sectors.

With nearly 20 years of experience, Lauren has led dynamic campaigns for global destinations, high-profile events, and community-driven organizations. Her work spans everything from launching citywide festivals to positioning nonprofits for media success and public impact.

Strategic Approach: Lauren combines tactical media planning with imaginative storytelling — securing top-tier coverage while keeping the brand’s bigger purpose at the heart of the narrative.

Unique Ability: Connecting people, ideas, and stories to generate buzz, foster trust, and move audiences to action. “I love the challenge of distilling complex stories into compelling narratives that people want to talk about.”

Expertise: Driving visibility through longstanding media relationships, expert news judgment, and a clear understanding of what makes a story stick.

Bruce brings more than two decades of experience in journalism and PR, securing major media placements for travel, entertainment, and public sector clients. From TIME to Travel + Leisure, Bruce knows how to shape a narrative that travels far.

Strategic Approach: Bruce uses deep local insight and national perspective to build storylines that resonate — blending traditional media outreach with digital and social amplification.

Unique Ability: Translating local relevance into national headlines and doing it with authenticity and speed.

“I get a thrill out of seeing the right story land at the right moment. That’s when real impact happens.”

Expertise: Turning brands into buzz through culture-forward storytelling, smart media strategy, and an intuitive feel for what’s next.

With nearly 15 years of experience, Hillary blends a passion for wellness, travel, and food with deep industry knowledge — delivering award-winning campaigns for top culinary and lifestyle brands, destination clients, and public health efforts.

Strategic Approach: Hillary pairs strong media relationships with curated trend awareness and standout visuals to deliver earned media that feels timely and timeless.

Unique Ability: Crafting messages that tap into cultural conversation — and getting them in front of the right people at the right time.

“I love helping brands find their voice, then turning up the volume.”

Expertise: Navigating the intersection of policy, advocacy, and strategic communications to elevate voices and drive public engagement.

With experience on Capitol Hill and in corporate public policy, Stacey brings a deep understanding of legislative landscapes and stakeholder communication.

Strategic Approach: Stacey leads with clarity, organization, and a commitment to credibility — building communications that influence, educate, and empower.

Unique Ability: Translating complex policy issues into accessible, compelling content that resonates with both decision-makers and the public.

 “Good public affairs work isn’t just about what’s said — it’s about who hears it and what they do next.”

Expertise: Leading high-impact campaigns powered by meticulous research, creative outreach, and a deep understanding of the evolving media and influencer space.

With a decade of PR experience, Jordan brings agility and polish to every campaign — from museum launches to milestone moments and global brand announcements.

Strategic Approach: Jordan uses audience intelligence and trend forecasting to shape modern PR plans that earn both headlines and hearts.

Unique Ability: Blending traditional media outreach with influencer integration to create 360° campaigns that expand awareness and build lasting relationships.

“What excites me is spotlighting our clients work by connecting people to unique experiences they’ll remember for the rest of their lives.”

Expertise: Blending creativity and strategy to deliver meaningful communications that resonate and drive results.

Sonee thrives at the intersection of creativity and precision, a trait that is carried into her work with KO clients to help them meet their goals. With a background in financial services and client strategy, Sonee honed her skills at leading Registered Investment Advisors where she worked to streamline communications between clients and advisors and provide holistic financial planning services prior to joining the KO team.

Strategic Approach: Sonee focuses on intentional, audience-centered execution grounded in collaboration and research. She enjoys working in a space where creative ideas meet clear objectives.

Unique Ability: Translating complex concepts into compelling narratives crafted for target audiences with artistry and accuracy.

“Precision is powerful when it’s paired with purpose.”