Lynda Carlisle is a strategic communications leader and brand reputation expert with experience spanning corporate, healthcare, government, nonprofit, and professional services sectors. She currently serves as Partner and Senior Vice President of Communications at CS-Effect, a strategic communications agency headquartered in Chicago. 

During her agency tenure, Lynda has worked with leading global, national and regional organizations - including the USDA, the CDC, Girl Scouts of America, Heidrick & Struggles and Endeavor Health - advising C-suite leaders through moments of change and crisis, leading high-profile PR campaigns, directing brand launches and developing thought capital initiatives that build trust and drive growth. She leads the agency’s account teams in providing high-touch, high-value client service and mentors the next generation of PR pros though their internship program. 

Prior to CS-Effect, Lynda led the regional communications team for the American Cancer Society, where she directed brand strategy, public relations and internal communications during a period of significant organizational growth and transformation. 

Lynda holds a master’s degree in Multicultural & Corporate Communications from DePaul University, earned a journalism degree from Eastern Illinois University and studied English literature at Harlaxton College in England. Her work has been recognized by the International Association of Business Communicators, Public Relations Society of America and Association Forum. She is a frequent industry speaker on crisis management, media training and strategic communications best practices.

As the mom of two current Hawkeyes, Lynda spends her free time following college football and baseball, practicing hot yoga and tracking the latest trends in sourdough recipes and floral designs. She lives just outside of Chicago with her husband and family, including their spoiled rescue pup and a 7-year-old carnival-won goldfish who continues to outpace expectations.