THE FIFTH ESTATE

In an age where traditional media sources of the “Fourth Estate” no longer have the exclusive on information access, advocacy communications has become its own unique platform for developing and distributing content — a Fifth Estate that sometimes complements, sometimes complicates, and sometimes replaces the conventional role of the press in our society. We cut through the noise — everything we do is a means toward an end that your organization is driving toward. We’re here to:

  • Listen to your needs and build a unique strategy tailored to meet a mutually defined set of goals. We get what you’re trying to do. And why.
  • Clearly and consistently communicate the opportunities and risks inherent in any tactic we consider pursuing, so that you can make an informed decision on how to proceed.
  • Do what we say we’re going to do. We meet deadlines, stick to budgets, honestly assess the landscape of possibilities, and always do our level best to deliver.

OUR TEAM

Scott Ward

Scott is a veteran communications and marketing professional with experience in the nonprofit, agency, government and entertainment fields, and has a passion for advancing issues and causes that directly impact people and our planet. He built Fifth Estate on the conviction that strategic communications is a powerful force that can be harnessed to make substantial, positive, enduring change in the world. He specializes in developing innovative communications strategies driven by clear, measurable goals and aligned with organizational mission; storytelling that crafts complex ideas and technical information into compelling, engaging and accessible content; and reaching across traditional divides to find shared values and common purpose. He is also an industry thought leader, frequently offering professional development trainings, speaking and participating on panels, and writing for such trade publications as PR Week and PR News.

Paige Glidden

For more than a decade, Paige has overseen PR, content creation, and digital media strategy for businesses and organizations with a social impact focus. As a communications consultant and the founder of Whip Communications, she has built strategic comms plans, run digital portfolios, managed media relations, and created content for brands like the United Nations Foundation, Dolby, Pretrial Justice Institute, Fenton Digital, and more. With a background in journalism, Paige's writing has been published in national outlets like Cosmopolitan, Marie Claire, Vox, Bustle, NBC News, and Parents.com, among others.

Kyle McKibbin

Kyle is a seasoned graphic artist with over 30 years of professional experience creating visual content for both corporate clients and government agencies such as National Institutes of Health, Smithsonian, Department of Defense, Department of Energy, and Customs. His work spans logo design, branding, publication layouts, infographics, and custom graphics, consistently delivering creative solutions that meet client needs on time and within budget. Designing digital assets for online campaigns ensuring consistency across social media, websites, and email marketing efforts. Kyle is also an expert in Section 508 compliance — a critical requirement for accessible digital content. His contributions include a wide range of government publications and digital projects as well as 508-compliant slideshow presentations and PDFs to ensure accessibility standards are met across all formats.

Courtney Sexton

Courtney is an accomplished writer, editor and content curator with more than 10 years of experience in advocacy public relations, communications and outreach; print and digital journalism; and documentary production. Courtney is a AAAS Mass Media Fellow (2020), and has spearheaded several science communication efforts within and beyond the academic setting. As both a researcher and a communicator, she has worked on-staff and consulted for a diverse portfolio of progressive organizations and agencies. Courtney is also the Co-founder and Director of the Washington, D.C.-based nonprofit literary organization, The Inner Loop, Inc., where she co-produces a biweekly podcast, coordinates outreach events, and leads local community arts engagement efforts. 

STRATEGIC PARTNERS

Modern Media

Modern Media is a partnership of problem-solving graphic designers. Full-service creative or design/production support – we make it easy to work with us. Communication teams of all kinds count on us — coalitions, foundations, PR firms and corporations. We know it’s hard work to get your message out there. We’re here to make it easier. Let’s get your story told.

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