Heather McElrath

Heather McElrath is the founder of Sandbox Communications, an adjunct PR professor, and a communications strategist who helps organizations build visibility, credibility, and trust in an AI-driven world.

With more than 20 years of experience in public relations, marketing, and communications, Heather has worked with national associations, nonprofits, financial services organizations, fintech companies, and technology brands. Her work focuses on helping organizations strengthen their reputation, clarify their message, and improve how they are found and trusted online through media relations, content strategy, search, and emerging AI platforms.

As the communications landscape evolves, Heather helps clients connect traditional public relations with modern digital strategies, ensuring their expertise is visible where audiences search, learn, and make decisions.

In addition to leading Sandbox Communications, Heather teaches PR Essentials at the Borough of Manhattan Community College, where she helps students develop practical communications skills and a strong foundation in the profession.

Heather holds an MBA in marketing from The George Washington University, a bachelor's degree in journalism from Virginia Tech, and a Leadership Essentials Certificate from Cornell University.

She lives in Chantilly, Virginia, where she attempts to practice yoga, travels whenever she can, and firmly believes champagne doesn't need a special occasion.