Hi, I'm Jessica Badger-Plotkin, a collaborative and strategic leader in large-scale event planning, public relations, and operations. With more than 20 years of experience across nonprofit, government, and corporate sectors, I design and deliver experiences that create meaningful attendee moments while building strong stakeholder relationships. I thrive in fast-paced environments, co-create bold solutions, and excel at ensuring seamless operations and stellar customer service. As the owner and partner of Black Badger Events, I’ve built a boutique, full-service operation delivering tailored experiences for nonprofits, Fortune 50 companies, and community organizations from Colorado to across the U.S. My work for Mile High United Way and RMI demonstrates integrity, collaboration, and in-the-moment problem solving, always aligning programs with mission and impact.

Jessica Badger-Plotkin

Hi, I'm Jessica Badger-Plotkin, a collaborative and strategic leader in large-scale event planning, public relations, and operations. With more than 20 years of experience across nonprofit, government, and corporate sectors, I design and deliver experiences that create meaningful attendee moments while building strong stakeholder relationships. I thrive in fast-paced environments, co-create bold solutions, and excel at ensuring seamless operations and stellar customer service. As the owner and partner of Black Badger Events, I’ve built a boutique, full-service operation delivering tailored experiences for nonprofits, Fortune 50 companies, and community organizations from Colorado to across the U.S. My work for Mile High United Way and RMI demonstrates integrity, collaboration, and in-the-moment problem solving, always aligning programs with mission and impact.

Available to hire

Hi, I’m Jessica Badger-Plotkin, a collaborative and strategic leader in large-scale event planning, public relations, and operations. With more than 20 years of experience across nonprofit, government, and corporate sectors, I design and deliver experiences that create meaningful attendee moments while building strong stakeholder relationships. I thrive in fast-paced environments, co-create bold solutions, and excel at ensuring seamless operations and stellar customer service.

As the owner and partner of Black Badger Events, I’ve built a boutique, full-service operation delivering tailored experiences for nonprofits, Fortune 50 companies, and community organizations from Colorado to across the U.S. My work for Mile High United Way and RMI demonstrates integrity, collaboration, and in-the-moment problem solving, always aligning programs with mission and impact.

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Experience Level

Intermediate
Intermediate
Intermediate
Intermediate
Intermediate

Language

English
Fluent

Work Experience

Owner and Partner at Black Badger Events
January 1, 2017 - Present
Founder and partner of Black Badger Events, a Certified Minority/Women Business Enterprise delivering tailored event experiences for nonprofits, Fortune 50 companies, and community organizations. Built a full-time operation known for creativity, flexibility, and boutique customer service. Led end-to-end event strategy, vendor management, client relations, and on-site execution across the U.S.
Senior Director of Events & Conferencing at Mile High United Way
January 1, 2014 - April 1, 2020
Oversaw 30+ annual events, including large-scale fundraising initiatives (Turkey Trot with 10,000 runners) and donor engagement programs; managed CoBank Leadership Center operations serving 25,000+ attendees annually. Led PR, stakeholder engagement, and venue logistics to ensure seamless, high-impact experiences.
Marketing Manager at United Way Worldwide
January 1, 2011 - January 1, 2014
Developed marketing materials for a global staff development platform reaching over 1,200 United Way chapters; planned and executed the Community Leaders Conference (1,500+ attendees); coordinated cross-functional teams to deliver high-quality content and attendee experiences.
Marketing Manager at American Beverage Association
January 1, 2006 - January 1, 2011
Contributed strategic insights to public relations campaigns and industry events in a fast-moving policy environment; managed communications and branding for InterBev, the ABA's flagship trade show; delivered customer-focused outreach for major global beverage corporations.
Public Affairs Specialist at Department of Health & Human Services
January 1, 2003 - January 1, 2006
Managed Rapid Response communications during national health crises; drafted speeches and coordinated logistics for high-profile figures (Surgeon General, Secretary, President); led advance work for official events including security coordination and briefing preparation; collaborated across federal agencies to ensure efficient operations.

Education

Bachelor's Degree in Corporate Event Planning at Florida State University
January 1, 2003 - May 13, 2026
Macro and Micro Economics at Department of Energy Graduate School
January 1, 2006 - May 13, 2026

Qualifications

Certified Minority/Small Business in State of Colorado
January 11, 2030 - May 13, 2026

Industry Experience

Non-Profit Organization, Government, Professional Services, Media & Entertainment, Travel & Hospitality