Kinship

Introducing... Mary Kate Feighny, who joins our Digital Team as a Digital Specialist! Why Mary Kate loves the hospitality industry: "I especially love how every hotel and restaurant is uniquely born and built. They all serve a common purpose, but each does so in its own special way. Also, after working in the industry, I admire the people who work to make these places function—everyone is working to build a place whose purpose is so that others can escape and enjoy it."

We're starting the week by welcoming Nick Urig as our new Director of Travel Media Relations! Previously, Nick led the out-of-market public relations efforts for Destination Cleveland and served in account management roles at agencies in Chicago, where he directed campaigns for acclaimed restaurants; hotel and travel attractions; culinary and wine events; cultural institutions; government agencies, and nonprofits. Outside of work, he enjoys cooking, spending time with his rescue dog Pennie and planning his next trip.

We're happy to kick off the week by welcoming Angela Salonga, M.S., Media Relations Specialist, to the PR team! Born in the Philippines and raised in Illinois, Angela brings together the warmth of Midwestern values and the rich tradition of Filipino hospitality. Her passion for public relations, particularly in the restaurant and lifestyle industries, is rooted in her family's tradition of hospitality and her desire to be part of a new generation of media-driven storytelling. Outside of work, you’ll find Angela exploring new restaurants, spending time with family, exploring new fitness hobbies or planning her wedding with her fiancé!

Introducing... Camille Jurgella, who joins the Digital Team as a Digital Specialist! Whether working with restaurants, coffee shops and beyond or just enjoying as a consumer, Camille loves discovering new places and trying new things. She's also a wine enthusiast, so highlighting wine bars or an impressive wine list is always a plus. She also has a cat named Alexis!

We're thrilled to introduce Alexandra Daher, who joined our Digital Team as a Digital Specialist! Originally from Kenosha, Wisconsin, Alex graduated from Loyola University Chicago with a BA in Communication Studies. Her most recent role was in Marketing Promotions for restaurants. Alex is excited to work with a creative team, contribute to meaningful brand campaigns, and grow her skills within a supportive and fun-loving company. In her free time, she plays the piano, sings and is into fashion.

We're thrilled to kick this week off by sharing that Rachel Busler has been promoted to Media Relations Manager! In her three years since beginning with us as an intern, she's shown herself to be one of the biggest team players. She's a tenacious, exhaustive publicist and a wildly creative, attentive and thorough leader—all with the brightest smile and megawatt optimism.

We're excited to welcome Colleen Claffy to the Social Media Team as a Social Media Specialist! Colleen is a true Chicagoan, always on the move to explore the latest restaurants. Her passion for social media marketing ignited during her undergraduate studies at the University of Iowa, leading her to a full-time role as a Social Media Marketing Manager in the apparel industry. Outside of work, Colleen enjoys exercising, being out on the water, traveling, sharing laughs with friends, and experimenting with new food and drink recipes.

We're growing! This week, we welcomed Ciara Schroeder to the Social Media Team. Originally from the Natural State, Ciara graduated from the University of Arkansas with a journalism degree. She decided to pack up her things and move to Denver, where she found her true passion in hospitality and built her experience working with premium and luxury hotels. When Ciara is not working on marketing campaigns, you can find her at the newest happy hour spot or attending a concert.

Happy first KinBirthday, Mary Cate Connell! Within her first year, she's immersed herself in all things creative programming, partnerships, outreach and account leading, creating impactful campaigns for our partners and fostering impressive relationships. Mary Cate, you brighten up any room and are just a delight to work with. We can't wait to see what this year two of Strategist looks like on you. Congrats!

Our Social Media Team is expanding! This week, we welcome Ashley Neff as a Paid Social Media Manager, adding Kinship's presence to Virginia. With 6+ years of marketing experience and a lifetime of hospitality insights, Ashley crafts campaigns as carefully as she tends her garden. Her philosophy? "Great social media, like great hospitality, is about creating memorable experiences." When not online, you’ll find her exploring vineyards or uncovering hidden culinary treasures, always with an eye for the next great story to share. Welcome to the team, Ashley!