Ortman leads development of SWHR’s strategic communications efforts to maximize the reach and impact of its scientific programs and policy activities. She also oversees implementation of media relations, social media, and website content.

Before joining SWHR, Ortman managed media relations and communications at the Society for Neuroscience. She coordinated press activities for hundreds of reporters at the SfN’s annual meeting, oversaw production of the Society’s member communications, and crafted compelling advocacy communications on biomedical research funding, animals in research, and more.

Prior to entering the nonprofit sector, Ortman worked in journalism as an editor and web producer at a daily newspaper in Indiana and at Roll Call, a respected political newspaper covering Capitol Hill and the White House.