Jay Ell Alexander is a public relations practitioner with a genuine commitment to giving back to the local community through her passion for communications, health and fitness. She is an experienced communications strategist, self-motivated, passionate, dedicated and a high performing professional with an extensive background in the industry.
In April 2018, Jay Ell became the sole owner and CEO of Black Girls RUN!, acquiring the national running organization after six years of serving as the organization's PR Director and National Manager. She was also one of the founding Ambassadors of the Black Girls RUN! Richmond local chapter.
She is also the Founder and CEO of The Vaughn Strategy, a public relations strategy consulting firm. Alexander has managed the communications, marketing, public and media relations for a full range of organizations from local government to non-profit.
Alexander currently serves on the Board of the Public Relations Society of America Richmond chapter and she is a member of the Junior League of Richmond and Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. (Omicron Iota, Spring 2007). In 2015, Alexander received the Public Relations Society of America Richmond Chapter Rising Star Award for her stellar public relations track record and contributions to the industry. In 2017, she was honored with the IPower Richmond’s Top 30 Under 30 designation for her leadership and commitment to the city of Richmond.
A native of Norfolk, Va., Alexander graduated from George Mason University in Fairfax, Va. (2008), with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Communications with a concentration in Journalism and minor in Spanish. She also received a Master of Science degree in Strategic Public Relations from Virginia Commonwealth University in Richmond, Va. (2010). Alexander has a passion for running (completing her first marathon in 2014 and numerous half marathons, 10Ks and 5Ks since 2010), loves shopping (sneakers!) and traveling. She is a lover of all places and things with water!
She resides in Richmond, Va. with her husband, Chris, son Chris, Jr. and their pup, Luna.