Work:

Great Elephant Census

Paul G. Allen wanted to create a future where African elephants are safe from extinction. The Great Elephant Census was born - the largest, pan-Africa aerial survey since the 1970s, involving 38 countries and 50 scientists, covering more than 600,000km. Completed in 2016, it now forms an essential baseline for future African elephant conservation efforts.

Devon served as internal lead for the PR team overseeing communications strategy.

Renew Oregon

Renew Oregon is a clean energy advocacy coalition of businesses and workers, healthcare professionals and parents, farmers and ranchers, faith and community organizations, and individuals coming together to move our state away from polluting energy to a clean energy economy.

Devon served as a core member of the Renew Oregon communications team, driving projects to tell the human story of climate change, and pass policy to transition Oregon to a clean energy economy.

adidas Shamrock Run

The adidas Shamrock Run is the largest running and walking event in Oregon and the third largest running event in the western US. A staple of Portland’s culture and the annual kick-off to spring running season, the 2018 event celebrated its 40th year with 25,000 runners and walkers.

Devon oversaw an integrated marketing strategy to increase event awareness and attendance.

“Through her choice of causes and organizations to represent, and her understanding of our needs in the media world, Devon Downeysmith has become one of the most effective PR people in the Northwest. I always welcome a pitch email from her, because I know there's something real there, a story to tell and an excellent person to tell it.

Some of my best interviews have been with people Devon has brought to my attention. She's very astute about our target and content needs, and passionate about her clients. Because of her professionalism, she has a lot of credibility, and I always look forward to hearing from her!" 

- JOHN ERICKSON, K013 NEWS DIRECTOR & MORNING CO-HOST (RETIRED)