Vice President
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Deirdre graduated from College of Charleston, S.C., in 2000 with a BA in Media Communications. Fresh out of college, Deirdre entered the workforce in the media sector where she spent several years in the TV industry. She held integral roles behind the scenes as assignment and planning editors at News 12 Long Island and WLNY-TV 55, gaining valuable experience for her role at Syntax.

Deirdre joined the Syntax team in 2007. Her strong media background and well-established relationships with contacts throughout NYC and Long Island have been a major asset to Syntax.

Over the course of her tenure with the company she has been instrumental to the formation of a comprehensive and streamlined media department for our firm. She is responsible for overseeing the media efforts of all Syntax’s clients, which includes responding to media inquiries, coordinating interviews, facilitating photo and video opportunities, serving as a spokesperson on behalf of clients, writing media statements, and securing positive media placements in regional and local outlets both print and broadcast.  

In addition, she assists clients in time of crisis and is recognized and relied upon as a trusted partner offering strategic guidance in response to media inquiries during some of their most critical times. 

Senior Accounts Director
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Kelly began her career at Syntax after graduating from Quinnipiac University, joining the firm as an assistant account executive. Over the past 20 years, she has built deep expertise in the education industry, becoming a trusted advisor and respected resource for public school districts across Long Island.

Now serving as Senior Accounts Director, Kelly manages communications strategies for multiple districts while overseeing a team of account executives and assistants. She is also responsible for leading the firm’s website team, ensuring that clients’ digital presence is clear, accessible and effective.

Known for her creativity, innovation and problem-solving instincts, Kelly has played an instrumental role in helping districts achieve and exceed their communication goals. She is highly regarded for her professionalism, collaborative approach, and ability to mentor others. By modeling strong work ethic and high-quality standards, she guides and inspires her colleagues while providing clients with strategic communications support that fosters trust and results.

Senior Accounts Director
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Beth Izzo is a seasoned public school communications professional, having assisted dozens of school districts throughout Nassau and Suffolk counties over the past 20 years on various communication campaigns and initiatives. Whether it’s crafting a compelling story to highlight district achievements, counseling clients during times of crisis or building strategies that foster trust and transparency, Beth prides herself on forming close, collaborative working relationships.

Additionally, she has designed and executed successful bond campaign strategies over the past two decades for various municipalities, including school, library and fire districts. She holds a bachelor’s degree in speech communications from James Madison University and a master’s degree in public relations from Boston University.

Accounts Director
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For over 20 years at Syntax, Jennifer Kuefner has been a trusted communications partner for school districts throughout Long Island, helping them inform, engage and connect with their communities. Her long-standing work with many regional clients includes day-to-day communications support, district branding, successful bond campaigns and strategic storytelling.

From producing informative newsletters and managing dynamic social media content to creating compelling videos and executing both print and digital communications, Jennifer helps districts highlight what matters most. She has played a critical role in developing clear, compassionate messaging during emergencies and crises; helping to ensure transparency, build community support and address uncertainties.

Known for their ability to build strong relationships, Jennifer works collaboratively with district leaders to strengthen trust both internally and externally. She is often relied upon during challenging situations to provide thoughtful guidance, tailored messaging and steady communication that supports district goals while addressing community concerns.

Jennifer brings a deep understanding of educational environments and a passion for helping schools tell their stories with clarity, integrity and heart.

Accounts Director
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Nicole Kavanagh is an experienced communications professional with more than a decade of expertise helping organizations share their stories with clarity and impact. As an Account Director, she partners with school districts and superintendents to strengthen their engagement with students, families, and communities. Her work spans crisis management, media relations, advisory support, and strategic content development, including newsletters and digital communications.

With a background rooted in public relations and a career dedicated to building trust through transparent, effective messaging, Nicole brings both strategic insight and hands-on experience to her clients. She is skilled at navigating high-pressure situations, guiding leaders through communications challenges while ensuring their values and vision remain at the forefront.

Nicole is passionate about advancing education through strong communication strategies and takes pride in helping clients foster meaningful connections. Her work reflects a commitment to accuracy, empathy, and collaboration in every project she leads.