With two decades of experience, Kerci Marcello Stroud coaches professionals at every level to elevate their voice and amplify their impact. She teaches practical strategies and offers honest, empathetic feedback in an environment where clients feel both challenged to grow and supported to succeed. A seasoned communicator, Kerci is also passionate about partnering with educational and other mission-driven institutions to tell their stories, build and protect their brands, and foster meaningful connections with their communities. This work includes developing comprehensive marketing and communications strategies and navigating crisis situations.
Before becoming a consultant, Kerci spent a decade as Rhode Island School of Design’s Chief Marketing and Communications Officer and served on the President’s executive cabinet, helping shape the institution’s strategic direction. She led a dynamic team responsible for deepening engagement through storytelling, public relations, brand cultivation, and digital strategy, and also headed crisis communications, guiding RISD through complex and often emotionally charged moments. Under Kerci’s leadership, the team bolstered the institution’s reputation around the globe and created its first-ever brand identity.
Kerci also held several positions at Teach For America, culminating in her role as the nonprofit’s Vice President of Communications. She directed communications nationally and in the organization’s then-43 regions to amplify awareness and garner support for TFA’s mission to end educational inequity. Earlier, Kerci worked for then-New York City Council Member Bill de Blasio, initially running his Brooklyn office and later serving as his Chief of Staff. In this position, she addressed a broad spectrum of district, citywide, and legislative issues in close collaboration with community leaders and city agencies, with a particular focus on educational initiatives. She also assisted with several local and national political campaigns.
A native Rhode Islander, Kerci holds a Bachelor’s degree and a Master’s in Public Policy from Duke University. She serves on the board of Adoption Rhode Island and is a member of United Way of Rhode Island’s Community Advisory Board.
