Our People

Shauna MacDonald is Principal and Founder of Brookline Public Relations. When she announced she was opening her own firm, the constant response was "It's about time!"

Getting her start in PR with a Boston-based public relations and strategic communication consulting firm, Shauna provided strategic public relations expertise to companies of all sizes throughout New England, the U.S. and the world. For five years, prior to starting Brookline, Shauna was Vice President and Managing Director of Western Canada for an international public relations firm, as well as the Technology & Marketing Communications Practice Leader for its Canadian operations.

By honing these skills, she has helped numerous companies in many industries launch programs, products and increase profile and awareness by developing comprehensive and strategic PR and IR strategies. Her extensive knowledge of both Canadian and U.S. markets has helped various companies from start-up to established, gain and sustain market leader positions.

"I love coming to work each day because I have the privilege of watching each talented Brookliner excel and ultimately our clients succeed because we love what we do."

If Shauna was not in public relations she would be a rock star.

Memorable Moment:

There are too many moments to consider but one that stands out in my mind is the day I had to make a major presentation to the Board of one of Canada’s most recognized brands. I was prepared, ready and excited. I had decided to wear a new power suit and had just purchased a new pair of fashionable heels. However the heel broke on my way to the meeting but I had a pair of flip flops in the back of my vehicle. Flip flops or broken heel? Needless to say, the Board had a few laughs about my “beach” attire and we secured the business.

Paula Worthington is Vice President at Brookline, and has broad public relations and marketing experience within a variety of sectors, including consumer brands, hospitality and tourism, entertainment, real estate, not-for-profit, oil and gas, professional services and transportation. Her career has been established on activities within the realms of public relations, marketing, event planning, corporate communications, branding and community relations.

At Brookline, Paula uses her fresh perspective and draws on her experience and skill set to deliver creative ideas and results-driven strategies for the agency and its clients.

"What I appreciate about Brookline is the energetic and entrepreneurial approach that each team member shares with our clients and each other. It's a positive and driven environment that makes every day exciting and unique."

With a flair for creativity and a keen eye to detail, Paula is also a published freelance writer and photographer, with work featured in The Calgary Herald, Swerve Magazine, PostMedia News Network, The Globe and Mail and various tourism websites.

If Paula was not in Public Relations, she would be a professional traveller.

Memorable Moment:

From hard hats and toques, to cowboy boots and steel-toed shoes, to little black dresses and dress-up heels, I’m always amazed by where Brookline takes me. A moment I will never forget is seeing the Slave Lake Fire Department being honoured by fellow residents and town supporters at Paul Brandt’s ‘Up from the Ashes’ benefit. In that moment, the sold-out concert hall was overflowing with a spirit of compassion, dedication, generosity and hope. Now that’s what I call a great day at work.

Jessica Moran is an Account Supervisor at Brookline. Jessica is a Public Relations expert with more than ten years of industry experience across a broad range of communications roles in the not-for-profit, corporate, government, and small business sectors.

Jessica holds a bachelor degree from Wilfrid Laurier University and a post-graduate degree in Public Relations from Sheridan College.

Jessica’s true strength is working with clients to effectively define their needs to develop a tailored communication strategy which provides the greatest value for their business.

“I am thrilled to have the opportunity to work with the talented and dedicated staff at Brookline. Their exciting and diverse client base makes every day exhilarating and I am proud to be part of such an amazing organization.”

If Jessica was not in public relations, she would be a professional freestyle snowboarder.

Memorable Moment:

A memorable Brookline moment was when the Brookline team surprised me with a “Brookline Teddy Bear” for my daughter Maggie on her third birthday. This gift really took me by surprise as I didn’t even realize that the team was aware that it was Maggie’s birthday. It really exemplified for me the genuine thoughtfulness of the Brookline team that I am so lucky to be a part of.

Robyn MacLean is an Account Executive at Brookline Public Relations and holds a Bachelor of Applied Communications in Public Relations from Mount Royal University.

Robyn brings experience and knowledge to the agency in the areas of media relations, event management, technical and creative writing and editing, corporate communications, government relations and social media. Working at Brookline has enabled her to work with a broad range of industries including not-for-profit, government, agriculture, hospitality, commercial real estate and development, oil and gas, investment banking, sports and recreation, and many more.

“We truly do have an unbelievably talented team here, and we thrive off each other to deliver the best results to countless industries and clients.”

Although she supports clients from various industries, she is most passionate about consumer public relations, specifically food and beverage. She is an advocate for putting the Calgary culinary scene on the map to gain international recognition.

Robyn is a self-proclaimed “foodie”, and if she was not in public relations, she would be a host on Food Network Canada, expanding the palates of picky eaters everywhere.

Memorable Moment:

…Working on CEO Rescue in the Rockies for STARS. This fundraiser stranded some of Calgary’s prominent business men in the middle of nowhere for a good cause. I watched the STARS helicopters approach the helipad, returning the CEOs to civilisation after being “rescued” from their location. I was taking a video as the helicopter circled above the cheering crowd before landing. All of the sudden…WHOMP! The helicopter dropped straight down, causing a propeller-fuelled windstorm. I was thrown back and my sweater was blown over my head, covering the lens of my camera. One of my not-so-classy moments. Lesson learned…stand back and tuck in my shirt.

Alisha Samnani is an Account Executive at Brookline Public Relations. Graduating with her Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Western Ontario, Alisha continued on to complete her Graduate Diploma in Public Relations Management from McGill University.

At Brookline, Alisha enhances the team with her strong social media, event management, media relations and corporate communications expertise. With her past agency expertise and broad experience in non-profit, government relations and lifestyle PR, she helps to support a number of diverse accounts. Alisha also manages Brookline’s multimedia activities working on collaborative content for both clients and the agency.

“Brookline fosters the creativity that helps us excel for each and every one of our clients. It is a pleasure to work with some of the best PR professionals in the city.”

If Alisha was not in public relations, she would be an EDM DJ.

Memorable Moment:

There are a lot of great moments; however, there is one that definitely stands out. Our client wanted us to think of something other than the traditional ‘shovel and dirt’ for their upcoming groundbreaking ceremony. The Brookline team came up with a custom designed photo op cement stamp that the COO could press into freshly laid cement. We had less than 48 hours to learn everything about cement, including how to pour it, set it, and stamp it; purchase a cement stamp from across the border; and complete a trial run. As always, the Brookline team was able to deliver, even on such short notice!

Sophie Pilon is an Account Specialist at Brookline Public Relations. She holds a Bachelor Degree from Université de Montréal and a Masters in Public Relations from Université Laval.

Sophie is a seasoned public relations practitioner who has worked with a variety of companies, professional and amateur sport teams and not-for-profit organizations. Sophie's strength lies in creating tailored strategic communications and media relations plans delivered to each client and their needs.

"I am truly excited to be working with such a great team of public relations experts. Being able to come to work every day with creative and motivated colleagues, partners and clients is invigorating."

If Sophie was not in public relations she would be a sports newscaster.

Ashlee Smith is Brookline’s Office Manager & Executive Assistant. In this role, she effectively coordinates the day-to-day operations of Brookline and proactively manages administration needs of the office. Ashlee supports the team with their daily tasks and also ensures that the administrative side of client accounts is expertly executed.

Ashlee graduated with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Development Studies from the University of Calgary. Prior to joining Brookline, she developed her administrative skills while supporting a large marketing team in the consumer/retail industry. Currently, Ashlee is pursuing her Public Relations Management Certificate at the University of Calgary.

“Brookline has, and continues to be a wonderful place for professional growth and adaptation. My love for ‘details’ is mirrored by Brookline’s culture and proven project achievements.”

If Ashlee was not in public relations, she would be a social scientist.

Memorable Moment:

A memorable moment for me was watching the riveting Newbie Performance in June 2011 by Jessica, Alisha and Mallory. I learned a lot about my new co-workers and internet sensation Antoine Dodson. Hide your kids, hide your wife, hide your kids, hide your wife!

Madison Olyniuk is an Account Specialist at Brookline Public Relations and holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Communication Studies from the University of Calgary.

With her past agency experience, and time in the government sector, Madison brings knowledge in media relations, event management, social media, and internal and external communications. She is also an active member of the Internal Association of Business Communicators where she has volunteered on the Student Development and Strategic Events portfolio.

“At Brookline, every day brings a new and exciting challenge. I get to work with a dynamic team, share ideas with people I respect and look for creative and unique solutions for our amazing clients. Who could ask for more?”

If Madison was not in public relations she would be a celebrity gossip writer.

Andria Campbell is an Assistant Account Specialist at Brookline Public Relations. She received her Graduate Diploma in Public Relations Management from McGill University, where she previously completed her Bachelor of Arts degree in Communications and Political Science.

“I am inspired every day working alongside the incredibly talented team at Brookline. It’s a privilege to be among professionals who consistently devote their knowledge, creativity and passion to each and every client.”

Andria is passionate about the arts, and studied dance for much of her life. This fostered her creative side and eye for detail; qualities she is excited to apply to all her projects at Brookline.

If Andria was not in public relations, she would be a ballerina.

Memorable Moment:

Sophie and I went on a road trip to Ponoka, Alberta to support UFA and Paul Brandt with media relations. The entire trip was a lot of fun, but one exceptional moment stood out. When our work was done we took in Paul Brandt’s concert, and witnessed a romantic proposal in front of where we sat! Being a part of an special evening that held meaning for so many people was an incredible experience.

Lauren Barrie is an intern at Brookline Public Relations. She is working towards earning a Bachelor of Communications with a Major in Public Relations from Mount Royal University.

Through her experiences as both a competitive dancer and model, she has developed a deep appreciation for Calgary’s art and culture scene. As an avid traveler, Lauren has honed her communication and problem-solving skills, while also developing a keen interest in international public relations.

“I am excited to be part of Brookline’s dynamic and multifaceted team. The opportunity to learn from some of Calgary’s best practitioners in such a supportive and collaborative environment is invaluable.”

Lauren is eager to pursue her passion within the consumer public relations sector and proudly brings her creative talent, energetic personality and strategic perspectives to her work at Brookline.

If Lauren was not in public relations, she would be a lifestyle magazine editor, interior designer, travel writer or food critic. Why narrow your options?