About

I embarked on my professional journey just one week after graduating from Moravian College, where I earned a Bachelor’s of Arts Degree in journalism and business management.

My first role was as the community relations coordinator for First Valley Bank, member of UJB Financial. I reported directly to the manager of community relations until her unexpected departure left me to step into her role, diving headfirst into the responsibilities with minimal experience. I took charge of the bank’s corporate contributions and community sponsorships, providing strategic advice to executive leadership on the allocation of millions of dollars towards community reinvestment and philanthropic initiatives across New Jersey and Pennsylvania.

It was an exhilarating time to oversee and execute marketing activities for the bank’s major sponsorships, which included partnerships with PBS programming, festivals, theaters, youth initiatives, and prestigious USGA tournaments. I also relished the opportunity to collaborate with our teams to build a vibrant employee volunteer program that was both active and visible in the community.

One of my most cherished experiences was leading the bank’s event marketing during the inaugural USGA Senior Golf Open at Saucon Valley Country Club in Bethlehem, PA. I directed all marketing and communications efforts, proudly serving as the bank’s concierge to create memorable client entertainment experiences.

This expertise also supported new branch openings, where I orchestrated sports-themed celebrations in collaboration with several professional athletes, including the heavyweight boxing champion Larry Holmes and beloved Philadelphia Phillies players, with my personal favorite being The Phanatic!

I responded to a blind advertisement for The Wood Company, now known as Sodexo, a leading contract food service provider in the Mid-Atlantic region. With limited experience in food service beyond my college waitressing days, I stepped into the role of marketing and communications manager at Wood, where I excelled in creating editorial content, including press releases, crisis communications, and captivating newsletter articles designed for hospitality and onsite dining. I built valuable relationships with influential editors nationwide, achieving unprecedented publicity for sectors such as higher education, corporate entities, senior living communities, and healthcare.

Additionally, I contributed to project teams focused on developing retail brands and launching our corporate newsletter. My communication expertise was also recognized by the Marketing 101 team, where I crafted a communications module that enhanced operational support.

Among my most rewarding experiences was my role on the executive committee of FoodShare, a significant fundraising initiative for food banks in Pennsylvania and New Jersey. To promote this event, our bakers created the world’s largest Rice Krispies treat, delighting attendees who also enjoyed a chefs’ showcase featuring over 200 award-winning culinary presentations. I was privileged to receive company awards from Wood for my contributions to both FoodShare and Marketing 101.

I was truly honored to be recruited as an editor for FoodService Director Magazine (FSD), the largest monthly publication in the nation dedicated to food service management solutions. The opportunity to generate story leads and delve into culinary and operational practices across the country ignited my passion for writing. This experience provided me with a fresh perspective on regional cuisine, local ingredients, and distinctive dining experiences.

During my time with FSD, I founded Hoyer & Associates, a small business that allows me to serve a diverse clientele spanning senior living, food, hospitality, technology, healthcare, automotive, and construction industries. This includes G.C. Zarnas, my family’s own specialty services contracting company. I continue to support Zarnas in various capacities, focusing on business development and leading the company’s marketing efforts.

Hoyer & Associates is committed to crafting customized communication strategies that resonate with a wide range of audiences!

An exciting opportunity arose with Cura Hospitality, a premier senior living and healthcare food service provider under the umbrella of Eat’n Park Hospitality Group, leading me to collaborate with Hoyer & Associates.

Over the next 13 years, I played a pivotal role in supporting the onsite brands, including Parkhurst Dining Services, which specializes in higher education and corporate dining, through strategic public relations, editorial, and media services.

In this capacity, I had the privilege of serving as a contributing editor and photographer for several prestigious industry publications such as Modern Healthcare, Provider, Advance for Long-Term Care, McKnights, FoodService Director Magazine, Edible Allegheny, Western Pennsylvania Guide to Good Health and Healthcare News, Long-Term Living, University Business, Business Officer, National Culinary Review, Convenience Store Daily, and On-Campus Hospitality Magazine.

Shifting back to my sports roots, I covered professional sports nutrition for the Pittsburgh Steelers and Penguins, with features appearing in the Pittsburgh Post Gazette, The Tribune, and Comcast. Additionally, I spearheaded the development of the brands’ inaugural digital newsletters, participated on the corporate newsletter editorial board, and crafted engaging content for websites and social media platforms.

As a fun personal touch, I collect pom pom hats, which have become my signature look!

Today, Hoyer & Associates continues to grow with clients who value their stories shared and promoted by an experienced story teller and gifted public and media relations professional.

I leverage this extensive experience to craft compelling narratives and strategic communications that resonate with diverse audiences. My passion for storytelling and community engagement drives my approach to public relations, ensuring that every project not only meets client objectives but also fosters meaningful connections within the community.

My relationships with several reporters, including my membership with the International Foodservice Editorial Council (IFEC), are well respected.  Members of the media rely on my expertise as a credible resource and friend!

Whether it’s through innovative communications, creative digital marketing or impactful event management, I am dedicated to delivering exceptional results that elevate brands and enhance their visibility in the marketplace – I’m the extension of your marketing and communications teams!

While my plate is full, I continue to volunteer for non-profits and support the Southern Lehigh School District as a professional photographer and videographer – capturing the memorable moments and exciting performances of our talented athletes!