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Articles by Wendy
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Wendy Blackburn shared thisHeart to Heart International has launched a search for its next CEO. This is an extraordinary opportunity to lead this respected, mission-driven organization dedicated to improving healthcare access both locally and globally. If you or someone in your network is a visionary leader ready to make a real impact, please consider applying. Learn more here: https://lnkd.in/gfT_DiBt.
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Wendy Blackburn shared thisHello friends! An amazing Kansas City-area nonprofit, Heart to Heart International, has been seeking a Controller to lead day-to-day accounting operations at their Lenexa headquarters, and they haven't yet found the right fit. Please direct any stellar candidates their way: https://lnkd.in/gQx4hXMr
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Wendy Blackburn shared thisThe fires and fallout in southern California have been so hard to see. I'm grateful to be part of an organization that is making a difference there on the ground. Go to hearttoheart.org to help people impacted by the California wildfires - they are going to need LOTS of support for quite some time.Wendy Blackburn shared thisThousands of hygiene kits are heading to California wildfire survivors. We're teaming up with amazing partners like Convoy of Hope Project HOPE, and Rise Against Hunger to get these vital supplies to those impacted by this disaster. A heartfelt thank you to FedEx and Airlink, Inc. for their crucial support in getting these essential supplies where they're needed most. Find out more: https://lnkd.in/gTH7DbKA #CaliforniaWildfires #HumanitarianAid #DisasterRelief #Partnerships
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Wendy Blackburn reposted thisThe images and videos coming out of the fires are heart-wrenching. I'm so glad to be a part of an organization that is able to move quickly to deliver necessary aid. One thing I've learned in all my years of working here is how crucial partnerships are to getting anything done in the humanitarian and disaster relief world. And, we have some incredible partners all working together to help those affected by this tragedy.Wendy Blackburn reposted thisThousands of hygiene kits are heading to California wildfire survivors. We're teaming up with amazing partners like Convoy of Hope Project HOPE, and Rise Against Hunger to get these vital supplies to those impacted by this disaster. A heartfelt thank you to FedEx and Airlink, Inc. for their crucial support in getting these essential supplies where they're needed most. Find out more: https://lnkd.in/gTH7DbKA #CaliforniaWildfires #HumanitarianAid #DisasterRelief #Partnerships
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Wendy Blackburn shared thisI've been watching the devastating flood videos out of Florida, Georgia, eastern Tennessee, and especially western North Carolina. My heart breaks for those impacted, and the road ahead they face. If you, too, feel helpless and want to do something, please consider donating to Heart to Heart International. They have teams on the ground now, providing hygiene kits, medicine, and medical supplies and assistance. Learn more about their effort: https://lnkd.in/dcB3jMD2 Donate here: https://lnkd.in/dgkhanRtKansas City organization steps up to aid Hurricane Helene victimsKansas City organization steps up to aid Hurricane Helene victims
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Wendy Blackburn reposted thisWendy Blackburn reposted thisSpread the love! Bring your family & friends to Humanitarian Day! Humanitarian Day is more fun with friends and family! Share the joy of giving back and register together for our May 11th event at our Lenexa, Kansas, headquarters. Find out more and register at hearttoheart.org/hday24
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Wendy Blackburn shared thisPlease join me for a wonderful experience at Heart to Heart International's annual Humanitarian Day! 🌍✨ Date: Saturday, May 11 Location: Heart to Heart International Headquarters, Lenexa, Kansas I'm thrilled to be a part of this incredible initiative supporting our community. It's an opportunity for all of us to come together and make a difference. Here's what you can expect: 🤝 Participate in assembling hygiene kits for those in need, including many right here in KC. 📚 Learn about the true essence of humanitarianism and how you can contribute. 😊 Have a blast while giving back to our community! This event is free and open to everyone. Don't miss out on this chance to spread love and compassion. Sign up now at https://lnkd.in/gXzqAvKU or reach out for more information. Let's make this year's Humanitarian Day one to remember! 🌟 #HHI #HumDay24 #CommunityImpactFree Community Event on Sat May 11 - Heart to Heart InternationalFree Community Event on Sat May 11 - Heart to Heart International
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Wendy Blackburn shared thisHere's a side to war that many of us don't often consider: dealing with periods. The U.N. estimates around 700,000 women and girls in Gaza experience menstrual cycles but can't access basic hygiene supplies, including menstrual pads. This puts women and girls at high risk for reproductive and urinary tract infections, for which there is inadequate healthcare available. Heart to Heart International, whose board I am on, is working with the United Nations Population Fund to deliver hygiene supplies, including 1.7 million menstrual pads, to the women and girls in Gaza. Help us get these critical supplies to those in desperate need. Donate today (I did!): https://lnkd.in/g3cvxC_e
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Wendy Blackburn liked thisThese past weeks in Boston have been special -- from the fan fest with the Tartan Army to the Round of 32 in the stadium, the city’s energy has been unmistakable. Equally meaningful has been sharing this World Cup experience with colleagues across Sanofi through the Next250 recognition program and the Boston26 FIFA Volunteers. This moment is part of a broader, year-long celebration for Sanofians in the U.S. as we mark the Semiquincentennial. Opportunities like this—bringing together such a diverse cross-section of our teams—don’t happen often, and they matter. Whether in sport or in science, progress is a team effort. It takes persistence, trust, and people showing up for something bigger than themselves. Proud that Sanofi is supporting Boston as a Host City Supporter—and even prouder of the teams recognized through our Next250 program who make moments like this more meaningful. Learn more https://lnkd.in/g-whadSa #WorldCup2026 #TheNext250 #TeamSanofi2026
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Wendy Blackburn liked thisHow was this awesome event one week ago already? The energy from these Rotarians from near and far (Argentina, to be exact) was incredible! They have a heart for service and a love of people that is irresistible. Thank you to Leawood Chamber of Commerce President and CEO Stephanie Meyer, MPA and Leawood Mayor Marc Elkins for attending.Wendy Blackburn liked thisInternational teamwork in action! A huge shoutout to the Leawood Rotary Club for sponsoring a special event at Heart to Heart International! It was inspiring to bring together Rotarians from across the Kansas City area and welcome our incredible guests all the way from Argentina for a day of service, connection and teamwork. With World Cup excitement in the air, this was a beautiful reminder of what we can achieve when the global community teams up. The energy was unmatched as we worked together to assemble hygiene kits together for those who need them most. Thank you & ¡gracias!
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Wendy Blackburn reacted on thisWhat an incredible start to the World Cup! I will admit, I was delightfully distracted by the Knicks and the NBA Finals, but I am doing my best to learn soccer (football). This past weekend at Boston's Fan Fest, it was amazing to see how the World Cup brings people together from around the world — not just for a love of sport, but for the betterment of our communities globally. At Fan Fest, I had an opportunity to meet Craig Ferguson, a Scottish man who walked from California to Boston to raise awareness for mental health. Craig personifies the heart of what this tournament represents: coming together for something bigger than us. Sanofi is an Official Boston Host City Supporter and I'm proud to be part of an organization supporting events like this in our community. #TheNext250 #WorldCup2026
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Wendy Blackburn reacted on thisWendy Blackburn reacted on thisAs some of you may know, I have recently had the privilege of joining AgencyOf as their new Director of Strategy and Operations. I couldn't be more thrilled, and have felt welcomed and energized by the opportunity. However, as all good things in life, I didn't do it alone. So many of you met for coffee, offered help and connections, or just listened while I shared my hopes and challenges. So many that I can't name them all hear, but you deserve recognition and appreciation. Thank you for your time, generosity and friendship. I am here to return the favor, with gratitude.
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Wendy Blackburn liked thisI ❤️ NY! Thank you, Spectrum Science, for the nomination, support and ability to rub elbows with other recipients of the PM360 Magazine #2026Elite100 Awards. 24 hours is never enough time in the big apple, that's for sure.Wendy Blackburn liked thisCome along with Joe as we celebrated the PM360 Magazine #2026ELITE100 Awards ✨ We were proud to celebrate Joe Doyle and Marie Boyle as PM360 Magazine 2026 ELITE 100 winners. Recognized for leadership, innovation, and impact across omnichannel engagement and strategic communications—this one was well deserved. Congratulations again, Joe and Marie 👏
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Wendy Blackburn reacted on thisWendy Blackburn reacted on thisFive years ago today, I walked into an operating room for #cancer surgery. Today, I’m walking into a celebration of health, resilience, and, honestly, just being here. Looking back, I’m incredibly blessed. To my family, friends, and co-workers: you didn't just "check in." You carried me through recovery and treatment with a level of care I’ll never be able to fully repay. I don't even remember much of the summer 2021 aside from picking out some furniture for the new house with Julie and spending loads of time on our side patio, enjoying the fresh air. But I also have to be real with you. I waited longer than I should have to speak up. I ignored the signs until they were impossible to ignore. Thanks to a world-class medical team, we caught it before it spread, but it was a closer call than it needed to be. So, consider this my 5-year "survivor anniversary" sermon: 1) Know your "normal": If something feels off with your body, don’t play hero. Seek treatment. 2) The 40+ Club: If you’re in your early 40s, go get that colorectal screening. 3) The Colonoscopy: It’s the best 30-minute nap you’ll ever take. It ensures nothing "sneaks up" on you or your doctor. Life is sweet, my health is good, and the view from the five-year mark is pretty spectacular. Listen to your body; it’s the only one you’ve got! Cheers to you! 💜 You all know who you are! #FCancer
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Wendy Blackburn reacted on thisWendy Blackburn reacted on this✨ I'm gonna let you in on a secret. 🇲🇽 The absolute best way to start the beginning of every year is to travel with 130 women to Mexico. In 2013, I was fortunate enough to be recognized for my leadership by being accepted into the Women of Influence (fka Women Who Mean Business). (Props to Jim Saladin for helping to write my application. And Neal Sharma for recommending me.) And a huge shoutout to The Kansas City Business Journal for organizing the program. 👯♀️ I was never in a sorority, so I can't say if this is a fair comparison, but this tribe of women is unlike anything I have ever experienced. ✈️ I didn't take the annual trip for the first four years. But in 2018, I went on my first trip with this group. I bonded with the class of 2018 that year, so much so that I now claim two classes 😊 📣 Spending 4-5 days with the smartest, kindest, most influential women in Kansas City will empower you to do anything. It's the most satisfying personal and professional growth. The best hype team. ☕ It's different than "networking." It's different than having an hour lunch or coffee. These are meaningful conversations, where you have time to go deep. Whether it's how to manage the transition of children from high school to college or how to secure funding for a new business. And it's really important to prioritize these relationships. We have to lift each other up. 😿 Women only make up ~30% of corporate board seats. Of the S&P 500 companies, 468 (94%) have male CEOs, and 32 have female CEOs. 💰 Those 32 female-led companies have significantly outperformed the rest. Over the past 10 years, returns have been 384% for female-led companies vs. 261% for male-led companies. 🔜 We need male-led organizations to promote more women to leadership roles. Do your part this year. The data shows the business will perform better! (https://lnkd.in/e6jHGRHb) 😊 I'm humbled to be part of this WOI group. I certainly don't take it for granted. Which is why I've taken the trip every year since my first time in 2018. ↗️ Feeling motivated, inspired, and driven after the trip, I've decided my word for 2026 is AMBITIOUS. 💎 Time to go make a new friendship bracelet to wear the word and remind myself every day. Thank you for being there Neelima Parasker, PMP®, Aviva Ajmera, Stacey Paine, Julie Pierce PE, LEED AP (she/her/hers), Jill McCarthy, Audrey Navarro, Diana Toman, Elizabeth Rosin, Janelle Forsythe, Jennifer Hannah, Michele Markham, Wendy Blackburn, Cathy Baier, Courtney Kounkel, Kelly Carnago, Nancy Whitworth, Mindy Corporon, Sheila Seck, and so, so, so many more - don't worry, I'm not going to tag 130 people here 🤣 #girlpower #ambitious
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Wendy Blackburn reacted on thisTuesday was one of the hardest days of my life. I moved my husband, Jeff, into memory care. Even when you know it is the right decision for safety and support, the weight of it is indescribable, but God's mercy has carried me. In the midst of the "what if's" and the heartache, I've realized that providing Jeff with a professional care team allows me to step back from being his primary care partner and go back to being his wife. It is because of this lived reality-the exhaustion, the difficult choices, and the deep love-that I am finding healing through action. I am honored to share that I have joined the Board of Directors for the Alzheimer's Association Heart of America Chapter. I am joining this board not just as a professional, but as a wife currently walking into the storm. My goal is to honor Jeff's journey by making a tangible difference for the patients, caregivers, and families who are facing these same impossible days. If you are on this path, please know that you aren't alone. If I can help you, please reach out. #EndAlz #CaregiverSupportWendy Blackburn reacted on thisPlease help us welcome Kristin R. Tyson to the Heart of America Board of Directors. Kristin is passionate about preserving dignity, expanding access to care, and supporting research that brings hope to millions. She has a personal interest in the mission as the primary care partner for her husband, Jeff, who was diagnosed with Alzheimer's in February 2024. Kristin is an experienced bank executive with a 41 year banking career, most recently serving as a Managing Director at CrossFirst Bank. She currently serves on the boards of The Boys and Girls Clubs of Greater Kansas City and the HNC Living Foundation, where she has advanced community-focused initiatives through thoughtful oversight and inclusive leadership. In 2016, Kristin was honored as a "Woman of Influence" by the Kansas City Business Journal. #ENDALZ
Experience & Education
Volunteer Experience
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Executive Board Member, Board Chair
Heart to Heart International
- Present 7 years 4 months
Disaster and Humanitarian Relief
Heart to Heart International seeks to improve healthcare access in the U.S. and around the world by ensuring quality care is provided equitably in medically under-resourced communities and in disaster situations.
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Board Member, Marketing Committee
The Arts & Recreation Foundation of Overland Park
- 4 years 1 month
Arts and Culture
The Arts & Recreation Foundation of Overland Park aims to support arts and recreation in our community by promoting and providing for the Overland Park Arboretum & Botanical Gardens, Deanna Rose Children’s Farmstead, and public art in Overland Park. The foundation and the City of Overland Park, Kansas, have worked together since 1995 in this unique public-private partnership.
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Board Member
Coalition for Healthcare Communication
- 2 years 6 months
Health
The Coalition for Healthcare Communication (CHC) is an organization that promotes the free exchange of accurate, credible scientific and medical information. The CHC's role is to protect and promote health information that is accurate, credible and accessible to all, and to defend the rights of medical professionals and consumers to receive that information.
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Board Member, Secretary
Forever Welcome Foundation
- 2 years 10 months
Human Rights
Forever Welcome seeks to generate empathy and understanding for people who immigrate to the U.S. by bringing their personal journey and contributions to light. In 2019 the Forever Welcome program was gifted to Sunayana Dumala by Intouch Solutions; Ms. Dumala is transitioning the program to a 501(c)(3) nonprofit to carry forward its mission. Learn more: https://www.facebook.com/ForeverWelcome1/
Publications
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Frequent Blogger/Contributor for Multiple Blogs and Industry Publications
ePharma Rx, eyeforpharma, pharmaphorum, Med Ad News, PharmaVoice, PM360
Honors & Awards
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MM+M Awards Jury 2020
Medical Marketing + Media
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Clio Health Awards Jury
The Clio Awards
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2018 KCBJ's Women Who Mean Business
Kansas City Business Journal
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2018 Medical Marketing & Media's "Hall of Femme"
Medical Marketing & Media (MM&M)
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Agency of the Year
MM&M, Med Ad News, PM360
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Top 25 Pharma Influencers You Should Follow on Twitter
Disruptor Daily
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2015 Agency Marketer of the Year
Nominee -- Medical Marketing & Media
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Influential Women of Kansas City Business
KC Business Magazine / ThisIsKC.com
http://www.thisiskc.com/2015/03/2015-influential-women-of-kansas-city-business/
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2014 Agency Marketer of the Year
Nominee -- Medical Marketing & Media
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Forty Under 40 Class of 2012
Ingram's Magazine
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Digital Health Scholar
Digital Health Coalition
The Digital Health Scholars work with the Digital Health Coalition’s Advisory Board to advance the coalition’s mission of serving as the collective voice and national forum for the discussion of the current and future issues relevant to digital and electronic marketing of healthcare products and services.
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100 Most Inspiring People in Life Science
PharmaVoice
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New Business Drives the Firm - Living the Values 2002
Fleishman-Hillard Kansas City
Organizations
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Coalition for Healthcare Communication
Board Member
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Heart to Heart International
Board Member
- Present -
Women Business Leaders in Healthcare (WBL)
Member
- Present -
Women Who Mean Business (WWMB), Kansas City Business Journal
Honoree
- Present -
Arts and Recreation Foundation of Overland Park (ARFOP)
Board of Directors
- Present -
Healthcare Businesswomen's Association
Member
- Present -
American Advertising Federation
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- Present -
Delta Delta Delta Alumni
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