Stephanie Ward

Background

About Stephanie Ward

An incredibly shy kid, in front of the television was where I felt the most comfortable. It was through this medium that I learned of the world outside of my four walls, connected with my sister on the shows we both liked while getting to know each other through the shows we didn’t, and explored who I wanted to be by seeing who I could be. This was all through a curated viewing experience strategically planned and artfully executed with content that spoke to me from brands I trusted. Understanding and respecting the power in this medium is why I am a Media Planner with a focus on children’s programming. I started my career in both the long-form and short-form programming worlds at Nicktoons Network, a new 24-hour digital cable network employing around two dozen people inclusive of the creative, acquisitions, programming, marketing, art and online teams. This was a great crash course in how TV worked and to play an integral role in what was the fastest growing kids network in an ever-changing media landscape was something I’ll never forget. Throughout the years, Nicktoons has always remained in purview but, at times, I've managed Nick Jr. and TeenNick while spearheading the launch of NickMom and NickSports, two programming blocks which, though short-lived, brought valuable insights and lasting collaborations to the Nickelodeon Portfolio. Utilizing research on our audience’s viewing habits, knowing who our audience is and the breath of the brands I’ve worked on has left me with the ability to talk to audiences of all ages. Currently, I manage the promotional planning and scheduling of Nickelodeon live-action priorities, on-air gaming initiatives and our promo inventory on Nick VOD, the Nick App and Nick.com. Outside of my day job, my skill of framing and curating a viewer’s experience carries over into my love of documentary photography. After volunteering as a photographer with Staten Island Women Who March, a grassroots group dedicated to advancing the interest of women and under-represented communities, I now volunteer as their Member Engagement Director. The project management skills honed in my role as a media planner, have served me well in organizing, promoting and executing various presentations, community meetings, teach-ins around civic engagement and voter outreach. Life has taken me down unexpected paths, but my need for connection, community and bringing that all together in a cohesive experience is what lights that path. If I'm being honest, at the end of that path, you can usually find me in front of my TV where it all started.