A Voice for Brunswick Schools: Dawn Allar
By Nellie Belkofer, BEAT reporter
BRUNSWICK, OH- Every day, students in the Brunswick community are treated to stories about the great things Brunswick kids are doing, both inside and outside the classroom. The person responsible for telling Brunswick's story is Dawn Allar, the district's Communications Director. Allar is a graduate of Brunswick High School and has served as the Communications Director for the past five years. As you can see in this profile, Allar puts a lot of time and effort into helping showcase the best of Brunswick City Schools.
A graduate from the University of Akron, Allar received her degree in Communication and was a member of the school’s newspaper and radio station, providing sports updates. Afterwards, she began her career at a pharmaceutical company. It was in this role, she said, that she learned the power of communication, building relationships and personal connections. This would be invaluable when she returned to her alma mater, as Brunswick Schools’ Communications Director.
One of the best things about Allar’s job is there is never a “typical day”. She explained that every day presents something different, with her working between buildings and with Brunswick’s leadership to communicate district messages. As a “department of one”, she said there are “no boring days”, only busy ones with many outstanding opportunities to showcase the greatness of our student body. Her favorite events to showcase include Brunswick High School’s Annual Top 30 recognition and the "Brunswick for a Brighter Future” campaign, which raised over $125,000 for blood cancer cures.
When asked to share some advice to kids regarding communication skills, Allar said, “While it can be challenging to speak from the heart, it’s always worth it.” According to Allar, authentic communication, with honest feelings can always be felt and is genuine.
In her free time, Allar loves to take pictures, watch sports, read, and spend time with her family. Having two children, sharing this time together is valuable and worthwhile to her.
As Communications Director, Dawn Allar puts a lot of time and energy into her job, helping show Brunswick’s story to the community she serves and loves.
Nellie Belkofer, Brunswick Middle School, is one of over fifty student “backpack journalists” (grades 6-12) in the award-winning BEAT Video Program. The program, celebrating its 25th year, is sponsored by Donut Land, Plum Creek Assisted Living Community, MODA Gifts, Scripps Howard Foundation and the Brunswick Rotary Club. Go to https://www.bcsoh.org/community/new-beat-site to learn more about the Program, or visit https://thebeat.viebit.com/?folder=ALL to view videos produced by the students.
PHOTOS: Dawn Allar at her desk.