Nicole Livas

Nicole Livas

Education: BA Communication

Other Education: 

  • MA Media Communication-Public Relations, Norfolk State University

Mentorship Commitment Preference: Participate in short-term mentoring (connect only during scheduled LinkUp events). Available for virtual mentoring. 

Industry: Communication and Education

Employer: Virginia Beach City Public Schools

Job Title: Chief Communications & Community Engagement Officer

Areas Nicole is interested in mentoring: 

  • Resume Review
  • Work-life Balance
  • Communication Skills

Bio: As Director of Communications at Virginia Beach City Public Schools, I contribute to fostering effective internal and external communication strategies, leveraging over 1.5 years in this role. My work includes supporting organizational messaging and engagement through networking, internal communications, and oral communication expertise. 

With over twenty years of experience in multimedia journalism and communications, I aim to drive impactful storytelling and engagement strategies. My background spans roles in local TV news, international radio, and digital media, aligning with my commitment to transparent and collaborative communication.

How did you get your first job? I did a few unpaid internships at TV and radio stations and at a record company. I sent hundreds of resume tapes to TV stations across the country and finally landed my first reporter job after about eight months of job searching.

If you were starting your career today, what is the one piece of advice you would give yourself? Learn every aspect of the industry you want to work in. Don't just learn your role. Have an understanding of what the people around you do. 

In what ways has your career path been unique or unconventional?  I switched careers and "upskilled" at the midpoint of my life and career. I'm supplementing what I'm learning on the job with master's classes in PR.

What career paths have you explored or transitioned between? Broadcast news and communications and public relations.

What skills or experiences have been most valuable in your career? 

  • Communication
  • Writing
  • Speaking
  • Listening
  • Media Relations
  • Community Engagement

Were you involved in any affinity groups during your time at Mason?

  • Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.
  • Summer Orientation Leader
  • Student Government Representative
  • Black Peer Counseling Representative

Nicole is open to participating in informational interviews