Professional Marketing Team - CKS Marketing

Christa K. Santos, MPA

President

Accomplished marketing and media strategist, Christa Santos founded CKS Marketing Communications in 2004. Christa Santos is a seasoned marketing communications professional with more than 20 years’ experience. In her consulting role, she helps emerging companies, organizations and nonprofit agencies develop cost-effective strategic plans and implements integrated marketing and public relations activities to help leverage exposure and increase business development.Santos has worked with UCF as an integral team member directing marketing communications efforts regarding business incubation, entrepreneurship, economic development and venture capital activities for more than 12 years. She has also worked with a variety of small businesses, healthcare organizations and nonprofit organizations, with an emphasis in high tech industries.Santos is a graduate of UCF with a Bachelor of Arts in Journalism, specializing in Advertising & Public Relations and also holds a Master’s degree in Public Administration.Santos is currently involved in several community organizations and serves as Chapter President of NAWBO Orlando. She serves as an alumni mentor to UCF as part of the Knight Network. She is a former president of the American Marketing Association Central Florida Chapter and served twice as president of the Greater Orlando Alumnae Association of Alpha Delta Pi Sorority. Santos is also a member of the Small Business Development Center’s Small Business Resource Network, advisor to Global Women of Impact, and a graduate of Leadership Orlando (Class 48). She is a frequent lecturer of marketing and public relations in the community.

Gina R. Smith

Senior Marketing Strategist

Gina R. Smith specializes in helping small businesses and agencies become more profitable through strategic planning, marketing, media relations and resource development. Smith graduated from the University of Central Florida in 1995 with a B.A. in Motion Picture Technology, a B.A. in Journalism (specializing in Advertising and Public Relations) and a minor in sociology. She currently consults with clients across the Southeast United States, partnering with a network of practitioners to offer the same level of services as a large agency without the sizable overhead costs.Smith spent several years writing, directing and producing local commercials and PSA’s. She spent over four years managing large-scale events for the Mid-Florida Chapter of the National Multiple Sclerosis Society. Within one year, Smith turned the events she managed, including the chapter’s “failing” events, into record breaking successes. Smith ultimately implemented promotional & marketing programs which increased overall participation and revenue by over 61%.Smith also developed local and statewide marketing strategies for the Florida Manufacturing Technology Center (FMTC). She fostered relationships with Orlando area media to increase corporate exposure by 75% which positioned FMTC as a high profile resource for public information. Currently, Smith focuses on helping emerging small business enterprises and non-profit agencies. Smith develops strategic plans and implements marketing/public relations strategies to develop leveraged exposure for businesses.

Matthew Bross

Branding and Creative Design Specialist

Matthew Bross, Design/UI Consultant. has 17 years of design experience. He started his design career at Spiral Up Interactive in Orlando, Florida in 1999. Notable clients included Walt Disney World, Universal Studios and some of the first “.com’s” such as Weddings.com, Puertabella,com and HGTV.com.In 2000, Bross was hired by GMP Companies as art director, where he directed all print and web projects for the firms’ 13 subsidiary companies. Then in 2005, he decided to start his own design firm where he has developed more than 150 Web sites, web applications, mobile applications, CDs, DVDs and interactive marketing campaigns for businesses and organizations across the United States.Some of Bross’ previous and current clients have included AT&T, P&G, University of Miami and the University of Central Florida. His focus is brand consulting and creative design. His passions are family, sports and music (check out his band RisingSky).

Lauren Rykwalder

Marketing Communications Specialist

Lauren Rykwalder is a highly dedicated and creative graphic designer and marketing professional known for her exceptional communication and efficiency. With a strong commitment to client satisfaction and trust, she understands the immeasurable value of effective client communication. Lauren excels at helping clients achieve their objectives while crafting content that perfectly aligns with their unique identity. Her areas of expertise include digital media and brand awareness. Lauren’s extensive experience spans marketing, graphic design, and account management.

Rich Essaf

Creative Director

Rich Essaf is a seasoned Art Director, Designer, and Illustrator based in West Chester, Pennsylvania, boasting an impressive 22-year journey in the design industry. Specializing in UX/UI design, branding, website design, and illustration, Rich has left his creative mark on a diverse clientele, including renowned names like DiD Agency, Campbells, and Glaxo-SmithKline.Rich’s passion lies in crafting captivating and effective digital and interactive solutions tailored to meet the unique needs and aspirations of his clients and their target audiences. His extensive portfolio showcases his proficiency in conceptualizing, designing, and prototyping responsive websites, mobile apps, banner ads, and animation design, as well as creating concept art, logos, and advertising campaigns. Equipped with a skill set that includes tools like XD, Sketch, Invision, Photoshop, Illustrator, Figma, and Procreate, Rich also possesses a solid grasp of HTML/CSS and JavaScript. His approach is marked by passion, creativity, and collaboration, always dedicated to delivering exceptional outcomes that leave a lasting impact.

Katie Hart

Marketing Events Intern

Team