Former Head of Common Sense Media Natalia Battaglia Joins Whiteboard Advisors as Senior VP

Former Common Sense Media Head Returns to Whiteboard Advisors

Whiteboard Advisors, recently recognized as the leading public relations firm in the edtech sector by EdTech Digest, has announced the exciting return of Natalia Battaglia as their new Senior Vice President. With a wealth of experience and a proven track record in strategic communications, Battaglia is expected to significantly bolster the firm’s efforts across a diverse range of clients in the education industry.

Battaglia previously held the position of Head of Communications at Common Sense Media, where she was responsible for overseeing a comprehensive array of external communication strategies. Her role involved steering executive thought leadership and crafting media strategies that would elevate the organization's public profile. Additionally, she contributed her communications expertise to two noteworthy clients of Whiteboard Advisors: Handshake, which is recognized as the leading platform for early career jobs in the United States, and General Assembly, a pioneer in tech boot camps.

Ben Wallerstein, the founder and CEO of Whiteboard Advisors, expressed confidence in Battaglia’s abilities, stating, "Natalia brings a rare combination of strategic communications expertise and subject matter expertise. She has a track record of using comms to shape the public dialogue and will be a tremendous asset to our team and the clients we serve."

As she re-joins Whiteboard Advisors, Battaglia steps into a team bursting with seasoned professionals and former journalists, all dedicated to advancing the firm’s mission to improve education and workforce development. This team includes notable figures like Jenna Talbot, Thomas Rodgers, and Lauren Camera, each contributing to the firm's dynamic communications culture.

Under Battaglia's guidance, the firm aims to strengthen its position in the rapidly evolving education sector, facilitating communication strategies that resonate with their varied client base. The firm has been making significant strides in its communications work, especially as their media outlets, such as "The EdSheet" and "What We’re Reading," have grown to reach more than 400,000 inboxes monthly, providing vital insights and discussions in the education field.

Beyond traditional PR, Whiteboard Advisors offers a comprehensive suite of services. Their research arm provides transactional due diligence, ensuring that clients make well-informed decisions. Additionally, the advocacy services led by Chief Advocacy Officer Anna Edwards emphasize the firm’s commitment to being a voice for policy change in education.

"I've spent my career helping mission-driven organizations tackle some of society's most pressing challenges and reach the audiences that matter most," remarked Battaglia. "Whiteboard Advisors has built something special—a practice that combines strategic rigor and policy expertise with a deep understanding of storytelling. That kind of integrated approach is a catalyst for meaningful change."

As Battaglia embarks on this new chapter with Whiteboard Advisors, the education sector can expect innovative and impactful communications strategies that not only elevate individual organizations but also contribute to broader societal improvements in learning and economic mobility.

About Whiteboard Advisors

Whiteboard Advisors is a strategy consulting, communications, and advocacy firm dedicated to transforming education and increasing economic mobility. With a multi-disciplinary approach, they serve some of the nation's most respected investors, impactful philanthropies, and nonprofit organizations, ensuring the progression of education and policy initiatives. Through its comprehensive services, Whiteboard Advisors continues to influence important conversations across the education landscape, making a lasting impact on the industry.