Hello.

I'm Andrew, a Strategic Communications Leader, Trusted Spokesperson, and Storyteller

I've spent my entire career in communications, helping organizations tell their stories, manage tough situations, and connect with the people who matter to them most. Whether it's through media outreach, digital campaigns, or brand storytelling, I focus on getting real results that align with business goals.

During my career I've built a reputation for being a communications professional who delivers, even when resources are limited. What I do best is create comprehensive communication plans that align with business goals, whether it's boosting a brand, handling a crisis, or introducing a new product. I've had the opportunity to lead teams, collaborate with senior leaders, and make an impact at both local and national levels.

In my most recent role as a senior PR strategist for a major healthcare network, I developed plans that integrated digital campaigns, earned media, and internal messaging. My approach is straightforward: I identify the target audience, tell them what they want to hear, and motivate them to take action in your favor. While my recent focus has been in healthcare, I've worked in various industries, and the essence of effective communication—understanding the audience and sharing relatable stories—applies everywhere.

I maintain strong connections with national and trade media, and I excel at transforming complex challenges into clear, compelling narratives. I draw on my hands-on experience and commitment to getting results, no matter the circumstance.

This strategic communications plan was designed to elevate the profile of Maria Fareri Children's Hospital's pediatric heart surgery program, with a goal of volume growth. The plan centered on a groundbreaking medical case, and it landed us a national TV exclusive.

Humans have communicated via storytelling for ages. It’s the way we connect and collect knowledge. A compelling story can turn a staid corporate message into something relatable and persuasive.  Explore a featured selection of my storytelling results below.

Managing a "Code Triage" at a regional trauma center is an intense crisis communication challenge with evolving facts and incessant media demands. Events such as the Farmingdale (N.Y.) High School bus crash, a national story for an extended period, underscore the need for a day-of communication plan. This section explores how strategic planning enables effective messaging during chaos and transforms crisis response into an opportunity for strategic communication.

From data breaches and infrastructure failures to mass casualty incidents and legal actions, I’ve developed and executed rapid-response plans that not only preserved trust but enhanced brand perception.

I’m always on the lookout for ways to showcase company representatives as go-to experts in their fields. My approach is a steady drumbeat that uses best tools for the job. Whether it’s landing a big media interview, writing a thought-provoking op-ed, crafting website content, or launching a targeted digital campaign, I pick the channel that fits the moment and the audience. By consistently highlighting expertise, I help turn reputation into business wins.

I've served as strategic business partner to senior executives for thought leadership opportunities.

We implemented an integrated communications strategy during National Nurses Week to build organizational reputation, increase patient confidence, and boost staff morale. The multi-channel approach included coordinated social media content over multiple platforms, live television interviews , and an email newsletter call-to-action for nursing excellence recognition.

This plan, which I personally led, took months of pre-planning. Our strategy kicked off with a Today Show exclusive followed by a heavily attended press conference, sparking over 100 press stories in local, national, and international outlets. We amplified the narrative with compelling videos and extensive follow-up features shared on social media platforms. This high-profile campaign achieved an estimated reach of over 30 million.

Building digital engagement strategies that exceed KPIs.

There are too many samples.  These are my most recent.

"It is my pleasure to give highest recommendations to Andy LaGuardia, who served as the Senior Director for Network Strategic Communications at WMCHealth. Andy’s proactive approach to public relations and marketing made a significant impact on our growing Ophthalmology department. Andy consistently went above and beyond by identifying and seizing opportunities to elevate our department's visibility.

One of his standout achievements was booking one of our doctors for a national TV show, a major opportunity that significantly boosted our profile. Additionally, Andy expertly positioned another doctor as a national subject matter expert during key press interviews, showcasing his ability to build credibility and promote our physicians as leaders in the field.

Beyond these high-profile placements, Andy also ensured that our team was consistently featured in the media whenever a relevant ophthalmology topic was in the news, helping us stay top-of-mind with the public and referring providers. His proactive outreach and strategic thinking meant that we were always ahead of the curve in terms of securing press opportunities. This was especially valuable for newer or younger faculty members.

Andy is a terrific communicator and strategist who knows how to create impactful promotional opportunities. His dedication to our success and his ability to recognize and act on timely media opportunities were invaluable. He is also kind, friendly, and approachable. I highly recommend Andy to any organization seeking someone with sharp capabilities in strategic communications and media relations."

Kelly Hutcheson, MD
Director, Ophthalmology
Westchester Medical Center

"Since I am an Infectious Diseases specialist, Andrew contacted me for media appearances about emerging infections like measles and influenza. He was always available, motivated and a pleasure to work with. I had almost no prior experience and Andrew patiently trained me on all the basics. He coached me through zoom and in-studio TV appearances as well as social media interviews and posts. Andrew always knew just what to say to help me highlight my message and break it down to digestible parts. He was enthusiastic, encouraging, and fun to be with. He had a great grasp on medical issues and an innate ability to present them to a lay public. So far, I have had more than 20 appearances and thoroughly enjoy working with Andrew any time he calls me. I have learned so much from him!"

Marina Keller, MD
Infectious Disease Expert & Hospital Epidemiologist
Westchester Medical Center