Lisa Howard is a communications and public relations professional who has public, private and non-profit experience driving impactful communications strategies. She worked for Mayor Richard M. Daley as the chief spokesperson for Chicago’s Airport System and later served as his Deputy Press Secretary. 

From there, she joined McDonald’s Corporation and spent 20 years in a variety of roles, leading efforts on national and international media opportunities and brand building opportunities for six Olympic Games. Lisa took an international assignment for three years in China, a key growth market for McDonald’s. While in Shanghai, she directed the company’s media relations strategy and communications plan, including the 2008 Beijing Summer Olympic Games. 

She also led the External Communications function at Exelon Corporation, and established an annual communications plan to promote Exelon’s strategic initiatives.

Today, Lisa is the Public Relations Director at the American Veterinary Medical Association, leading a team that includes media relations, social media and corporate communications for the non-profit that represents more than 99,500 veterinarians.

Music has always been a big passion for Lisa, and she has seen the power it has to transform and heal lives, build self confidence and help kids soar, especially in the lives of her 14 nieces and nephews. Beyond the sheer joy of music itself, belonging to a band helps to build discipline, community and accountability. UpBeat Music and Arts can instill these skills that will serve kids not only in a band setting, but in their lives and careers. UpBeat is music and so much more!