Gardi Ipema Wilks
Owner and Principal

Gardi Ipema Wilks is principal of Wilks Communications. Her career spans more than 25 years, and encompasses consulting, corporate and academic experience. Prior to establishing her firm, Wilks was with Cohn & Wolfe (a division of WPP) in New York, where she managed communications initiatives for Hasbro, Inc. and Smucker's. She began her career in New York at Ruder Finn, where she was a key member of the consumer products group managing public relations programs for a variety of clients including Timex, Lenox, Hoya Crystal and Hebrew National Foods. Wilks was also an assistant professor in the journalism department at Ball State University in Muncie, Indiana. She is currently a board member of West Suburban Public Action to Deliver Shelter (PADS) where she sits on the advancement committee and provides communications consultation. She has a bachelor's degree from Calvin College in Grand Rapids, Michigan, and a master's degree from Ball State University.

Megan Moriarity
Account Manager

With specialties in writing, editing and social media, Megan Moriarity is the chief writer and editor at Wilks Communications, as well as an account manager. She brings creative, innovative ideas and organized structure to the client's tailored communications campaigns. Previous to joining the team at Wilks Communications, she worked in the events department at the Arena Football League, and assisted in planning the league's championship game, ArenaBowl XXII, and accompanying events. She also gained valuable social media and word of mouth marketing experience while working at Zócalo Group (a division of Ketchum), where she played a part on the Kellogg's, Subway, Bertolli and Harrah's Entertainment teams. She has a bachelor's degree in communications and journalism from Dominican University in River Forest, IL.

Bre Whalen
Account Supervisor

Bre Whalen joined Wilks Communications in 2009 with responsibility for social media campaigns and media relations. Since then, she has increased her responsibilities and shown a true passion for her work with authors, journalists and clients. In addition to bringing a spunky personality to the team, she creates tailored media lists, fulfills requests from media outlets and integrates traditional media with social networking sites. She has a bachelor's degree in corporate communications from Dominican University in River Forest, IL.

Bozena Luczak
Office Manager

Bozena Luczak has served as Wilks Communications' office manager and executive assistant since 2000. She works together with other team members to create and implement customized campaigns, then provides thorough and accurate reporting to clients. Luczak also leads Wilks Communications' office administration including billing, computer and phone systems, payroll and human resources. She has a bachelor's degree in computer information systems and business administration from National-Louis University.

partners

Wilks Communications is focused on building relationships and creating lasting connections. Our partners are a valuable part of our business and help us to reach our clients goals. Our partners include:

• Mary Gannon Communications
• Lalich Resources
• Maggie Begley Communications
• Padovani Communications
• Savor: The Food Agency