Erica Jellerson is a strategic communications leader with over a decade of experience amplifying the voices of mission-driven organizations. With deep roots in storytelling and a passion for justice, she specializes in crafting narratives that not only inform but inspire action.
Erica has partnered with national, statewide, and local nonprofits to elevate causes ranging from immigrant rights and trauma-informed care to mental health, public health, and economic equity. Her work bridges the gap between complex issues and public understanding, helping organizations engage their audiences, build credibility, and drive meaningful change.
Whether developing a full-scale messaging strategy, shaping a digital campaign, or supporting executive thought leadership, Erica brings clarity, creativity, and care to every project. Her expertise spans advocacy communications, branding, media strategy, event planning, and nonprofit leadership.
She holds a B.A. in Public Relations and Advertising from DePaul University and a Certificate in Branding Strategies from Northwestern University’s Kellogg School of Management.
She is also mom/ager to Josie Lou Jellerson, who you can follow on Instagram.
Erica provided freelance support for a media project when a team member unexpectedly left. She quickly got up to speed on the project, built media lists, conducted story-finding sessions and managed media outreach in multiple markets. She seamlessly joined the team, got to work and delivered results. Erica is responsive, diligent and a good people person. I love working with her, and highly recommend her.
- Jessica Thunberg Smith
CEO, Jasculca Terman Strategic Communications
I’ve had the pleasure of working closely with Erica on a range of design projects for Niles Township, including a full redesign of the Township’s mailed newsletter, a comprehensive brochure of services, and several event logos. Across every project, Erica brought an exceptional level of professionalism, clarity, and warmth that made the creative process both seamless and rewarding.
Erica has a remarkable ability to manage multiple moving parts with grace and precision. Her attention to detail is outstanding—every piece of content she oversees is thoughtful, well-organized, and aligned with the Township’s mission and voice. She communicates with purpose, gives constructive feedback, and respects the creative process, which fosters a truly collaborative environment.
What stands out most about Erica is her personable nature and commitment to excellence. She leads with kindness, listens actively, and ensures deadlines are met without ever compromising quality. Her organizational skills are second to none, and her calm, proactive approach makes even the most complex projects feel manageable.
Any team would be fortunate to have Erica at the helm of their communications or public affairs initiatives. I’m grateful to have had the opportunity to collaborate with her and would wholeheartedly recommend her for any endeavor that requires strategic thinking, creative vision, and rock-solid execution.
- Chris Gattorna
CG Ink
Erica is a delight to work with. She is a rare combination of creative and efficient. I’ve seen her take others’ unfinished and broad concepts and bring them to fruition in a timely and professional manner. She builds relationships first to bolster her work, which makes collaboration easier and more effective. I’ve been working in non-profit and the public sector for fifteen years, and Erica is the most talented communications professional I’ve had the pleasure of working with.
- Ruth Orme-Johnson
Director of Social Services, Niles Township Government
Erica worked with the Partnership for Resilience to guide us through updating our brand and style guide. Throughout the process, I was impressed by her attention to detail, her thoughtful clarifying questions that moved our work forward, and her efficient, effective communication. She was approachable, supportive, and responsive throughout the entire process. The final result brought greater consistency and clarity to our branding and communication across all workstreams.
- Crissy Mombela
Director of Programs & Initiatives, Partnership for Resilience