Everyone has a unique voice and a story to tell. I work with our clients to help them find their voice, craft their message, and share it with the world in a way that is authentic, compelling, and effective.
-Janell Ford
ABOUT ME
Janell J. Lewis Ford is a veteran media professional with a heart for community service and giving back through volunteering and mentoring. She has been the Executive Director of Communications and Marketing for the City of Killeen since July 2021.
She has a nearly 20-year background in broadcast news media and she’s a three-time Emmy nominee. She has also taught on the elementary, junior high school and collegiate level as a journalism professor. Janell has worked as a Public Affairs Officer for the U.S. Military at the National Training Center and Fort Irwin; Assistant News Director for an ABC/Fox affiliate; and a producer for NBC and CBS news affiliates across the country. She has volunteered and held several positions on national and local boards, including the National Association of Black Journalists (NABJ), the Society of Professional Journalists, the NAACP, the Urban League, Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., Big Brothers Big Sisters, the Order of the Eastern Stars, CASA (Court-Appointed Special Advocates), the Garinger Education Foundation, the Young Professionals, United Way, the Association of the U.S. Army (AUSA), the American Red Cross/Service to Armed Forces, Military and Civilian Spouses’ Club, Family Readiness Groups, Valley Rescue Mission, Feeding the Valley, Forever Baltimore!, JanellJay Media LLC, as well as other non-profits organizations.
Janell has been appointed by U.S. Congressman Sanford Bishop to serve on various committees, and appointed by a Georgia mayor to serve on the Mayor’s Commission on Unity, Diversity and Prosperity. Janell has interviewed the likes of Barack Obama, Oprah Winfrey and Maya Angelou, among others and has been awarded a “Top 5 Under 40” honor from three, different organizations.
Janell is currently responsible for all marketing and communications for the City of Killeen, especially in the digital and social media arena by integrating a multimedia skillset. Her job entails managing the City of Killeen’s website (www.KilleenTexas.gov), all social media platforms, advertising/promotion, and she acts as a Chief of Staff for the Mayor of Killeen. Janell is married to a 27-year veteran of the U.S. Army, and has three children. Her parents also both served in the U.S. Army.
SERVICES
Media Coaching
Leadership Training
I love helping build strong teams. Does your team need a boost? Contact me for professional development sessions and advice.
I had a nearly 20-year career in broadcast news, digital and print media. Need some tips? Let me help!
MY TESTIMONIALS
Gregory F.
"Janell is a highly-motivated, forward-thinking and extremely intelligent journalist who has lots of knowledge in her field. Her ability to seamlessly handle multiple projects is flawless, and she's relentless on making organizations go from good to great."
Whit W.
"Janell is a great producer who brings lots of good energy to a newsroom. She has great attention to detail and produces timely newscasts that provide viewers good context to how the day's events affect the world around them. She is also a great gal!"
Deborah L.
I've volunteered with Janell in different capacities for several years and I'm amazed at her huge heart and true passion for connecting with youth and giving back to her community. Her energy inspires others to do their part and her spirit is infectious!"