Emily Gowdey-Backus
Hi, I’m Emily. As a Worcester-based writer, communications professional, and podcast enthusiast, I have a decade of experience designing and creating print and online publications, managing and growing corporate and higher education social media profiles, developing relationships with local media outlets, and administering team-focused projects.
Trained as a business and commerce journalist, I’ve operated for a decade in a deadline-driven industry and, as I’ve progressed, taken on the management of others. This includes creative types - writers, designers and photographers - as well as corresponding budgets for campaigns on which they work.
Research, preparation, a genuine desire to learn from others and passion for effective communication all drive my professional skillset. Previously, my writing has focused on everything from commerce and local businesses to education, nonprofits and philanthropy, hospitality and tourism, and workforce development. Armed with an eagle eye for editing and sharp adherence to AP style, I’ve earned multiple awards for my writing and cultivated sources across the tri-state area and beyond.
In 2015, I received a master’s degree in international journalism from Cardiff University where I interviewed Syrian refugees who had only arrived in the U.K. weeks, sometimes days, prior. The culmination of those interviews was published by The New Internationalist.
Currently, I live with my family and wire fox terrier, Cricket, in Worcester, Mass. where I enjoy perusing independent bookstores, catching up with friends at local breweries and pop-up culinary events.
COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
Leadership Worcester Class of 2020
ArtsWorcester (Finance Committee)
POW! WOW! Worcester (Marketing Committee)
2020 Worcester Women’s Leadership Conference (Steering, Breakout Session committees)
EDUCATION
MA International Journalism; Cardiff University, 2015
BA History, Art History; Saint Lawrence University, 2010