My Skills

Over 25 years of experience in higher education marketing.

Web Designer

Responsible for the maintenance of 570+ webpages using an inhouse content management system.

Digital Marketer

Writes, provides creative, and monitors digital campaigns: Google, Facebook, Instagram and Linkedin ads. Provides assessment at completion.

Content Writer

Writes clearly and concisely for diverse audiences. Presents a positive voice supportive of an institution's mission.

Art Director

Performs project management and art direction for a full-time designer, a part-time designer and graduate assistant.

Email Marketer

Uses email marketing software, Fire Engine Red, to conduct and measure the effectiveness of email marketing campaigns.

Photographer

Conducts photo shoots for web, social media, and print. Follow me on Instagram @zebelcummings to view my personal photo collection.

Testimonials

I worked with Valerie as a web, print and social media content specialist at Missouri State University for two years. During this time, I was given the opportunity to learn and expand my skills in social media content management, graphic design, video and photo editing and the communication skills needed to work within a creative marketing team. She is a great director to work under and her attention to detail provided assistance in copyediting for blog posts, social media copy and leading promotional campaigns. Personally, she is a genuine leader who is open to new ideas, she values the team members she works with and is a positive energy to work with. I truly valued my time getting to work with and learn under Valerie and recommend her as a marketing professional.

Taylor Vinson

Valerie possesses strong technical web development know-how and experience that inspires one to expand their own technical abilities and attention to detail. She has the characteristics of a great leader and is fun to work for. Valerie will push you to do your best work and is always there to help in anyway.

ROBERT LOWERY

I worked with Valerie for three years – first as a photographer, then as a photographer and graphic designer. Valerie was instrumental in my development and growth as a visual communicator; in addition to being a fantastic designer, she is exceptionally gifted at directing marketing professionals, managing the budget, and coordinating the efforts of the Publications & Marketing Department with the needs of Missouri State University’s Extended Campus. It was evident to me that she is a person who will consistently drive the implementation and integration of revenue generating marketing campaigns. As a student, the experience I gained from working for Ms. Cummings propelled my career instantly, and the management techniques I learned from her have carried forward to be the driving principles upon which I now run my own conversion driven photography and marketing department.

RACHEL OGLESBY

I have known Valerie for over 12 years. For 5 of those years I was a senior designer under her direction and later worked for her in a freelance capacity. Not only does Valerie excel in all areas of print and web design, she is also a natural leader and easy to collaborate with. She directs several employees, builds successful marketing plans, coordinates with university departments, printers and outside vendors all while juggling her own creative projects.

STEFANIE CASSIDY